Diamondbacks
Arizona Diamondbacks Closer Paul Sewald Could Be a Concern
Arizona Diamondbacks closer Paul Sewald could be a concern as we head into the latter part of the season. There have been some concerns lately, and the organization must watch him closely. Sewald has allowed runs in six of his last nine appearances.
Arizona Diamondbacks closer Paul Sewald could be a concern as the games become more meaningful. Let’s not sugarcoat it; he’s been having a challenging time recently when it comes to giving up runs.
Returned this Season
Sewald’s signing and return to the Diamondbacks organization for this season wasn’t a popular choice. When he was traded to the Diamondbacks in 2023, he instantly was inserted as the team’s closer. At that time, he brought much-needed stability to an inconsistent bullpen. That guidance on the mound led to a World Series run. Sewald finished the regular season 13 for 15 in saves and went on to go 6 for 7 in the postseason.
Been Effective this Season
He has been highly effective and valuable in closing games this season. He even celebrated his 100th career save back in May. With 23 saves and only two blown at this point in the season, he has been an immense bonus.
Recent Outings
But there have been some concerns lately, and the organization must watch him closely. Sewald has allowed runs in six of his last nine appearances. While runs happen in closing situations, his ERA, which was 3.18 is now close to 5. In fact, over 16 games since June 1, his ERA is 6.60 and he allowed five home runs. Overall, he has allowed nine home runs, which ties him for the third-most among relievers—and just one off his career high.
Non-Save Struggles
In non-save situations when the team is either not behind or has a lead greater than three runs, his pitching and execution have been terrible. He is struggling with a 5.87 ERA and five losses in 11 appearances.
Bad Memories
Arizona Diamondbacks closer Paul Sewald could be a concern as we head into the latter part of the season. And it brings back bad memories. After starting the season well in 2024, a series of bad games led to his losing the closer role in July. At the end of that season, he was not offered a contract and became a free agent.
Will the Manager Remove Him
Will Manager Torey Lovullo remove him as the closer again? We know Sewald’s velocity has dropped off compared to his 2023 peak. With really only two pitches to choose from, a four-seam fastball and a sweeper, his long-term viability in the ninth inning could become uncertain. At this juncture, this team cannot afford to lose games due to an ineffective closer.
Who gets the Closer Role
If they do make a change, who becomes the closer? The Diamondbacks currently have two right-handed pitchers they could move into that position. However, there are concerns. Jonathan Loáisiga does have experience as a closer from his time with the New York Yankees. But in 235 career games, he has only finished 42 and has just nine career saves. Juan Morillo is another to consider. However, he has found a role as a situational setup arm. But do you take a chance moving him to a role he hasn’t experienced at this point and mess with his confidence?
Trade Deadline
They could see who is out there as a trade candidate, but pickings may be slim. With 22 of 30 teams in playoff contention, that leaves eight teams to ask about a closer. That could create a premium situation for a “selling” team, especially with a lot of contenders looking for the same thigs. The Diamondbacks do not want to lose top prospects for a possible “rental” closer.
Next 10 Days
Arizona Diamondbacks closer Paul Sewald could be a concern, and a decision needs to be made soon. The trade deadline is August 3, 10 days left for a decision. They could decide to stay with Sewald and work with him to make changes in his mechanics. If making adjustments could return the right-hander to his earlier performance level, the team could breathe a little easier, even if they decide to pick up another closer.
Outlook
The outlook for the last 60 games of the season is crucial. The Diamondback are in an aggressive and competitive race for the playoffs. This makes every game important. Consistency in Sewald’s pitching skills and game-to-game performance is necessary to get the save(s) and secure the win(s). Sewald has demonstrated that he can effectively convert saves. If he can return to form and shine, the team could reach the postseason. If, however, no answer is found, his continued struggles will hamper their playoff goals, and they could miss out.
Jim Marshall
Jim Marshall has been writing about sports for over 10 years. He started his sports career in radio, co-hosting and producing several sports-talk radio programs in Phoenix. He has covered local, college, and national sports, but specializes in MLB. His articles have appeared in several sports-reporting sites, including our own Legends On Deck. Jim is also a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America (IBWAA).
