Snakes Alive: The Diamondbacks 2023 Cinderella Season
I have always loved the game of baseball. As a youngster, I was an absolute die-hard Padres fan, idolizing the larger-than-life legends of the game. I wanted to field like Steve Finley, hit bombs like Adrián González, have a batting average like Tony Gwynn, and put fear into the hearts of batters like Goose Gossage. I used to want to field grounders and grow a goatee like Ken Caminiti's. I followed every one of Trevor Hoffman's saves. I loved the game more than life itself. I would spend my mornings poring over the newspaper's stats, keeping track of hits, errors, and pitching performances. However, after relocating in 2020, I found myself adrift, a fan without a team. While I continued to follow the Padres, the connection felt diminished. Something that gave me so much joy had begun to lose its grip on me. I say all of this because the season the Diamondbacks had this past year was nothing short of magical. Not only did they make their way to the World Series, but they also gave me the gift of baseball back. And they gave my children the spark I had when I was their age.
It all began last season when we were fortunate to be able to attend a Diamondbacks vs. Nationals game, courtesy of an Arizona Little League event. The AZ Little League hosts a game once a year where the little leaguers can walk down on the field prior to the game starting. Once we got up to our seats and got settled in for the game, I was hoping and praying for anything other than a 1-0 pitching duel that would bore our kids to death. Little did I know what was in store. The Diamondbacks led for most of the game, but the Nationals surged ahead in the top of the ninth. Then, a dramatic first-pitch home run in the bottom of the ninth tied the game for the D-backs, who then clinched victory by exploiting the Nationals' mistakes to load the bases and walk in the winning run. The energy at Chase Field felt like we just clinched the NLCS, despite it being an early-season, non-interleague match. That day, I knew the Diamondbacks were on the path to a Cinderella season; you could just feel it in the air.
Billy Beane once famously said, "How can you not be romantic about baseball?" The Diamondbacks' new docuseries on their official YouTube channel captures this romance perfectly. I wholeheartedly recommend it to all baseball enthusiasts, not just Diamondbacks fans. We've highlighted the first four episodes here and plan to feature subsequent releases as the Diamondbacks post them.
Episode 1: The Unexpected Rise
The Arizona Diamondbacks' 2023 season was nothing short of a cinematic spectacle, encapsulated brilliantly in the premiere episode of the docuseries "Snakes Alive." This episode takes fans through the regular season's rollercoaster, showcasing how the team defied expectations and clinched their first postseason spot since 2017. The narrative is gripping, highlighting key moments and strategies that led to their success. Viewers are treated to in-depth analyses of pivotal games and turning points that defined the Diamondbacks' journey, offering insights into the resilience and teamwork that propelled them forward. The episode culminates with the tension-filled Game 1 of the NL Wild Card Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, setting the stage for a postseason full of surprises and exhilarating baseball and hinting at the emergence of unsung heroes who would later play crucial roles in the team's playoff odyssey.
Episode 2: "What a Play by the Old Guy"
Continuing the high-stakes drama, Episode 2 of "Snakes Alive" picks up in the heat of the Wild Card Series. With the bases loaded in Milwaukee, the episode captures a pivotal moment that turned the tide in favor of the Diamondbacks. The title, "What a Play by the Old Guy," hints at Evan Longoria's crucial play, snatching a line drive and doubling up the Brewers to squash a bases-loaded one-out rally. Many have identified this play as a critical turning point in the D-Backs 2023 playoff run. This episode not only showcases the nail-biting moments of the game but also delves into the team's dynamics and the strategic decisions that propelled them forward.
Episode 3: Overcoming the Odds
In the third episode of "Snakes Alive," the spotlight turns to the epic showdown between the Diamondbacks and the Los Angeles Dodgers during the 2023 NLDS. As a Diamondbacks fan, this episode resonates deeply. Nobody in the mainstream baseball world thought David could defeat Goliath, and yet... Yes, I am talking to you, Jake Saviki! It's a thrilling portrayal of how the D-backs showcased their grit and tenacity. The narrative delves into the strategic thought process and the emotional rollercoaster experienced by the team and fans alike as the Diamondbacks sought to topple the mighty Dodgers. Every pitch, hit, and play is charged with the intensity of a lightning bolt, making this episode a riveting tribute to the Diamondbacks' triumphant fight against the odds.
Episode 4: "3 is a Magic Number"
In the fourth episode, the Diamondbacks' journey reaches a crescendo as they complete a sweep of the Dodgers, their NL West rivals. "3 is a Magic Number" not only signifies the sweep but also the Diamondbacks' pursuit of their first World Series berth since their 2001 championship win. The episode is a thrilling conclusion to the NLDS, filled with strategic gameplay, the personal stories of the players, and the emotional impact of the team's success on their fans and the city of Phoenix.
The docuseries "Snakes Alive" is a masterful recount of the Arizona Diamondbacks' chaotic yet triumphant run to the 2023 World Series. Viewers embark on a journey filled with unexpected victories, strategic masterstrokes, and the raw emotion of professional baseball through its detailed episodes. Each episode builds on the last, creating a compelling narrative that not only celebrates the team's achievements but also brings fans closer to the heart and soul of the Diamondbacks' organization. Please follow along with us as we repost and share each of the upcoming episodes from the Diamondbacks Production Team. Thank you D-Backs for an amazing season and thank you for bringing the gift of baseball back into our house.
