Diamondbacks Embrace Challenge of Competing in NL West

Arizona's CEO says they enjoy the rivalry with the powerhouse Dodgers despite the financial disparity.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The Arizona Diamondbacks are embracing the challenge of competing in the NL West against the dominant Los Angeles Dodgers, who continue to spend big on top talent. While the Dodgers are projected to win over 100 games again, the Diamondbacks are looking to bounce back from an 80-82 season and make the playoffs. Arizona's CEO Derrick Hall says they enjoy the rivalry with the Dodgers and are willing to spend more themselves to try to keep up.

Why it matters

The Diamondbacks' willingness to compete against the Dodgers' financial might shows their commitment to building a winning team and maintaining a strong rivalry in the division. This could lead to an exciting NL West race, even if the Dodgers remain the favorites.

The details

The Diamondbacks have traded for All-Star third baseman Nolan Arenado and re-signed pitcher Zac Gallen this offseason, showing they are willing to spend more to try to keep up with the Dodgers. However, the Dodgers are still projected to win over 103 games, while the Diamondbacks are projected for just 79.5 wins. The Padres and Giants are also expected to be better than the Diamondbacks in the division.

  • The Diamondbacks swept the Dodgers in a 3-game series in 2023 to advance to the NLCS.

The players

Ken Kendricks

The owner of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Derrick Hall

The president and CEO of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Nolan Arenado

An All-Star third baseman traded to the Diamondbacks this offseason.

Zac Gallen

A starting pitcher who re-signed with the Diamondbacks for 1 year.

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What they’re saying

“I really like being in their division. I do think we've built that rivalry especially with postseason success for both of us the last number of years. I enjoy it. I like the challenge. I do again credit them. I compliment them for building the team the way they have. They're an unbelievable organization. Yet it is fun. It's fueling for us to be in this division.”

— Derrick Hall, President and CEO, Arizona Diamondbacks (Bickley & Marotta)

What’s next

The Diamondbacks will look to continue building their roster and competing with the Dodgers in the NL West, with key matchups between the two teams likely to be closely watched throughout the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Despite the financial disparity between the Diamondbacks and the powerhouse Dodgers, Arizona's leadership is embracing the challenge of competing in the NL West and maintaining a strong rivalry. This could lead to an exciting divisional race, even if the Dodgers remain the favorites.