'Diamondbacks' Torey Lovullo: Anything is Possible in Game 7'

The Arizona Diamondbacks are preparing for Game 7 of the NLCS against the Philadelphia Phillies with a normal mindset, ready to prove the naysayers wrong and win their first pennant in 22 years.

The atmosphere in the Arizona Diamondbacks clubhouse before Game 7 of the NLCS against the Philadelphia Phillies was described as normal by manager Torey Lovullo. Players were engaged in various activities such as using their phones, having conversations, and playing games while enjoying cheesesteaks. Lovullo acknowledged that while it seemed like business as usual, the team understood the significance of the game - a chance to advance to the World Series against the Texas Rangers.

Lovullo emphasized that Game 7s are unpredictable, and the Diamondbacks have experienced this firsthand in their history. In the 2001 World Series, they managed to rally for two runs against the legendary closer Mariano Rivera of the New York Yankees in the bottom of the ninth inning. Lovullo highlighted the importance of a single play or pitch that could determine the outcome of the game and ultimately, the opportunity to reach the World Series.

Despite the magnitude of the game, Lovullo and the players approached it with a similar mindset to Game 6, where they faced elimination but emerged victorious with a 5-1 win. Shortstop Geraldo Perdomo emphasized that their approach on the field remained unchanged, as they had already proven their readiness for the postseason by reaching this stage. Perdomo also mentioned his experience in the Dominican Winter League playoffs, which prepared him for the intense atmosphere and fan reactions.

Closer Paul Sewald acknowledged that even though the Diamondbacks were considered underdogs, the pressure was still present for both teams. He stressed the importance of focusing on the process rather than the result, as excessive pressure can hinder performance. Lovullo found entertainment in the external noise surrounding the team during the postseason, citing radio personality Christopher "Mad Dog" Russo's retirement statement if the Diamondbacks were to win the pennant.

While acknowledging that the Diamondbacks had fewer regular-season wins than the division winners, Lovullo believed that the best teams make it to the playoffs, and anything can happen from there. He expressed excitement about the team's resilience in the face of doubters and bullies in the National League. Lovullo saw Game 7 as an opportunity to prove the naysayers wrong and achieve something remarkable.

The Diamondbacks approached the game with a simple mindset - to keep things as normal as possible, give their all, and silence the haters. This game presented them with a chance to win their first pennant in 22 years, and they were determined to seize the opportunity.