Corbin Carroll’s Pumpkin Seeds Fuel Diamondbacks’ Early Success

PHOENIX, Arizona — Corbin Carroll, right fielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks, is off to a remarkable start this season, leading Major League Baseball with nine home runs. Despite a recent series loss, Carroll’s performance has drawn attention for both his skills and his unique pre-game routine.

Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo recently spoke on MLB Network Radio about Carroll’s secret to success: pumpkin seeds. “Every day, he walks into the dugout with a Ziploc bag of pumpkin seeds,” Lovullo said. “That oughta tell you that he has a plan to stay hydrated and nourished at a different level.”

Carroll’s transformation has been significant since last year. He ended April 2023 with a .193 batting average and only one home run, contributing to the Diamondbacks’ disappointing 12-17 record. This season, the team stands at 14-11, with Carroll boasting an impressive .321 batting average and a 1.065 OPS.

Lovullo praised Carroll’s maturity and focus. “There was a level of maturing that we went through last year,” he said. “He was doing everything with a purpose. It was to be in this position today to be a more complete hitter than he was last year.”

Aside from Carroll, teammates like Pavin Smith and Josh Naylor are also making an impact, with Smith leading the National League batting average at .365 and Naylor contributing 17 RBIs. However, the Diamondbacks’ pitching staff remains a concern. The rotation is led by a 26-year-old pitcher with four wins and a 2.73 ERA, but the rest has struggled.

As the Diamondbacks prepare to host the Atlanta Braves on Friday, Carroll continues to be a key player in the team’s pursuit of success. His dedication to a disciplined diet and training regimen has made a notable difference in his game this season.