PHOENIX -- The D-backs followed up a surprise 2017 postseason berth with a 20-8 start to the season, and after a disappointing May, they rebounded to go 19-9 in June to show that they have what it takes to contend again.
The organization went all in financially this past winter, as it opened the season with a payroll of around $135 million -- more than $20 million more than the franchise record.
General manager Mike Hazen traded some of his young capital in February to acquire outfielder Steven Souza Jr., making it clear the that team will do all it can to take the next step this year.