Can Diamondbacks Recapture Their Winning Ways?

Finishing a season 70-92 and 25 games out of first place in the National League West division is miles away from the Arizona Diamondbacks' 2001 World Series Championship form. It's steps behind their playoff teams of 1999, 2002 and 2007.

Making the playoffs--and eventually winning the whole thing--is the reason why teams play the games. And of course, it's the Diamondbacks' ultimate goal.

But after such an abysmal year, how do they return to form?

The Arizona Republic

had an interesting article on just how the Diamondbacks can once again become a contender. It was a four-step plan with began with picking up pitcher Brandon Webb's 2010 option.

Webb missed all of last season with a shoulder injury. Arizona has a dilemma. The Diamondbacks, this offseason, would have to pick up Webb's option on blind faith. It's worth the risk. If healthy, Webb can certainly provide Arizona with a reward. He's 87-62 in his career with a 3.27 earned run average and a Cy Young Award under this belt. Webb and Dan Harren can form one of the National League's top pitching duos.

Pitching is a need, as The Republic suggests the Diamondbacks should also look for another quality starting pitcher. Another strong arm in the rotation would definitely, once again, make the Diamondbacks contenders once more. Brad Penny and Jason Marquis, two solid starters, will be free agents this offseason. Or perhaps the Diamondbacks would want to take a chance on two former ace pitchers who are looking to revive their careers in Bartolo Colon and Mike Hampton

Offensively, the Diamondbacks may need another bat. Arizona does have ist cornerstone run producer in Mark Reynolds, who had one of the best seasons in Diamondbacks history, hitting 44 homers and driving in 102 runs. Outfielder Justin Upton also gave the Diamondbacks some pop in the lineup with 26 homers, 86 runs batted in and a .300 batting average. Another strong bat, say an Xavier Nady or Matt Holliday, would form a formidable offensive attack.

The Diamondbacks are starting from rock bottom. Literally. But take a look at the latest trend in Major League baseball of offseason or midseason splashes which result in postseason success. The New York Yankees, Milwaukee Brewers, Colorado Rockies, Los Angeles Dodgers.

Add the Diamondbacks to the list?

Let's wait and see. Stay tuned.