Descalso puts on display of versatility

Utilityman shifts to 2nd as Goldy returns from injury

Paul Goldschmidt’s return to the Diamondbacks lineup after a five-game hiatus with a sore elbow shifted Daniel Descalso from first base where he was posted up for the bulk of Goldschmidt’s absence, but Descalso didn’t move far.

He was stationed at second base Saturday against the Padres, once again highlighting his value as the team’s utility specialist.

“It’s a tremendous luxury for me and this team that he can bounce around any position and still give you the same quality moments – whether it be defensively or offensively,” manager Torey Lovullo said. “It’s still the same heartbeat. … It’s probably the most meaningful thing I can say about what he offers me is that he never changes. It’s always the same, very consistent. You know exactly what you’re going to get when you put Daniel on the field.”

Descalso has played six positions this season, more than any other Diamondback. His rotation around the field has included a stop on the pitching mound, as he made two appearances in lopsided losses last month.

“It’s been nice because I’ve been able to find my way into the lineup in a variety of different spots, whether it’s second or left, first or third,” Descalso said. “I think it allows the manager flexibility with the lineup.”

More than versatility, the experienced Descalso has been a leader with four trips to the postseason – including a World Series championship with the Cardinals in 2011 – on his resume. And that insight isn’t overlooked as the Diamondbacks inch closer to the playoffs.

“You gotta push to the end,” Descalso said. “Enjoy it. Don’t try to put too much pressure (on), but don’t let off the gas. This is not the time to back off. Push toward that 162-mark and if we’re lucky enough to get into the playoffs, then you’ll find that second wind and you’ll get that energy for October.”

Eye on the elbow

Although the Diamondbacks anticipate Goldschmidt will be fine, they do plan to keep tabs on how he’s feeling by checking in on his status after every game, Lovullo said.

An MRI earlier in the week revealed inflammation in Goldschmidt’s right elbow but no structural damage. He received a cortisone injection and went through injury protocol successfully Friday, paving the way for his return Saturday.

Roster move

The Diamondbacks recalled left-hander Anthony Banda, outfielder Jeremy Hazelbaker and infielder Ildemaro Vargas from Triple-A Reno after the Aces season ended Friday. Arizona’s active roster is now at 34. “We’re all excited to get these guys up from Triple-A,” Lovullo said. “At different times, they’ve been here to help us out at different levels, and we anticipate that happening again. Anthony has just thrown, so he’s going to fall right into his routine, his four, fiveday routine before we see him on the mound. But we feel all these guys are deserving of it, and in Jeremy Hazelbaker’s case, he’s been here for about half the season. He’s helped us win some games, and I know we’re all excited to have all three of these guys join us.”

Looking back

After the Diamondbacks’ franchiserecord 13-game win streak was snapped Friday with a 10-6 loss to the Padres, Lovullo did take some time to reflect on just how significant the run was.

“It was a really special accomplishment,” Lovullo said.

“When you’re talking about team records and you have a 20-year history with a record book and you’re doing something special, it speaks volumes about what this team can do and we know that. It was a tough streak to end (Friday) night, but I know these guys are ready to battle.”