Welcome to D-backs Under Review
D-backs Under Review is an independent publication launched in October 2024 by Michael McDermott.
Michael McDermott has written about the Diamondbacks and their farm system since November 2015. Some of his stops include AZ Snake Pit, Venom Strikes, Burn City Sports, and Arizona Diamondbacks On SI. He’s been credentialed for 50 games at Chase Field and covered the Arizona Fall League the past three years.
The goal of D-backs Under Review is to cut past the headlines and sound bites to provide as detailed an analysis as possible. That includes adding much-needed context to breaking news, game coverage, breaking down the latest trends, and staying on top of the farm system. Everything in the organization, from the Dominican Leagues to the Major Leagues, will be on the table.
Ghost will be the primary place for me to publish my daily content on the D-backs, with my Substack serving more as strictly a newsletter function. As I get more comfortable with the platform and figure out a way to monetize both platforms, I can start testing more content options.
Michael’s Mission Statement
While I don’t have the resume or perspective that some of the best baseball writers and analysts in the world (Jim Callis, Lance Brozdowski, Eno Sarris, Steve Gilbert, etc.), the time spent in the game has shaped my perspective on it. The hope for this outlet is that I can take what I’ve learned and improve the discourse surrounding the game itself.
In today’s media landscape, it’s all about clicks, RPM, and dollars. That’s an unfortunate truth I’ve learned in the three years of baseball writing. Instead, I want to prove that quality writing and pieces crafted with care carry more value in today’s world.