“We had some really dark times, times that told us we should shut down, but we never did,” D-backs manager Torey Lovullo said. “I think we’re going to learn some valuable lessons from what happened in 2020 and continue to move forward until we get to where we’re trying to get to.”

The Diamondbacks knew that Bumgarner might not be the guy he was in 2014, when he was the game’s most clutch pitcher and the World Series MVP. But they certainly thought the left-hander would be better than he showed in 2020.

MadBum finished with a 1-4 record and 6.48 ERA. Even worse, his fastball velocity fell to the 88-89 mph range and opposing hitters had no trouble squaring up pitches. The D-backs don’t necessarily need Bumgarner to be an ace next season, and at this point, they’ll happily take average.

Varsho could contribute in the D-backs lineup next season. He hit just .188 this season in 101 at-bats but played better the longer he was on a big-league field. He fields an intriguing mix of all three outfield positions and catcher, and Lovullo said they’d like to find a consistent role.

Others who showed promise: 1B/DH Pavin Smith, RHP Riley Smith, IF Andy Young and Mathisen.