Arizona Diamondbacks' Success Will Leak into 2012 MLB Season

What a year, what a comeback, what a team. The 2011 Arizona Diamondbacks had a complete turnaround from 2010 and even from the beginning of this season. 

Last year, the D-Backs finished in last place in the NL West with only 65 victories. This year, they improved that mark by 29 games and won the division with a 94-68 record. Unfortunately, they could not sneak past the Brewers, but it was a great season nonetheless.

Kirk Gibson was the best thing that happened to the Snakes. He brought a positive, winning outlook to the team and gave them a much needed face-lift. The rest of the coaching staff was a pleasant surprise as well.

Pitching led the way all year as Ian Kennedy capped a stellar season with 21 wins, and Daniel Hudson followed right behind with 16. Rookie Josh Collmenter also chipped in with 10 wins and shut the door on the Brewers in his first postseason start. 

All eyes were on the bullpen coming into this season, hoping that they could improve upon their dismal 2010 performance. Sure enough, they did. David Hernandez and J.J. Putz were unstoppable most of the season and rarely got roughed up. 

When the starters had to leave the game early, Micah Owings was great as a long reliever, and the late addition of Brad Ziegler helped bulk up the 'pen for the end of the season run. 

As for the offense, Justin Upton had a MVP-type season, Miguel Montero put his name up there with Brian McCann for best catcher in the National League, and Ryan Roberts broke out at the ripe age of 31 with an unbelievable season.

I'm telling you right now that the 2012 season will be even better. 

Pitching prospects Jarrod Parker, Trevor Bauer, and Tyler Skaggs will all be vying for a spot in the rotation, especially if the Diamondbacks opt to not re-sign Joe Saunders. All three have been scouted as becoming possible aces in their big league careers.

September call up Paul Goldschmidt was awesome for the short period of time he played and looks to be the starting first baseman for next season. He has huge power, and his defense was top-notch. Many are comparing him to former D-Back Mark Reynolds, and I can see that, but I think Goldschmidt won't strike out as much and will have a much better average. 

Down on the farm, the best position prospect is Matt Davidson.  He has a great bat, but his fielding is a little questionable. He is primarily a third baseman, but with Roberts at the hot corner, a possible move to the outfield could be in store for Davidson.

Some other prospects to keep an eye on are: Brian Borchering, Chris Owings, Marc Krauss and A.J. Pollock. 

Borchering has a powerful bat. Owings has the potential to be the shortstop of the future after Stephen Drew. Krauss also has tremendous power but is a defensive liability. Pollock doesn't do one thing exceptionally well but could be a solid outfielder in the future.

Only time will tell if these youngsters can come and make an impact in the bigs. If they can, the organization will be set and have everything in place for future postseason runs.