What is one key for the Arizona Diamondbacks to gain ground in the NL West?

May 5, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno (14) and pitcher Brandyn Garcia (55) celebrate after defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Take last night’s dominant win over the Pittsburgh Pirates as an example of a snapshot of what this team looks like when its arms dictate the game. Arizona played efficient innings with command in hitter’s count, and Eduardo Rodriguez worked deep enough to keep a vulnerable bullpen out of harm’s way. It wasn’t just a victory; it was a blueprint.

May 5, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte (4) celebrates after hitting a triple against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the first inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Data across the league reinforces the pattern that teams that consistently get six-plus innings from their starters win at a dramatically higher rate. For Arizona, that margin feels even wider. Their bullpen inconsistencies aren’t fatal, but they are exposed when starters exit early. When starters attack the zone and control tempo, the defense sharpens, the offense presses less, and the entire roster plays free. It’s not just run prevention, it’s identity. The Diamondbacks don’t need perfection. They need reliability. If the rotation becomes a nightly constant of length, command, and composure, Arizona shifts from hopeful contender to legitimate postseason threat.

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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen