Torey Lovullo’s Promise: A Story of Friendship, Tragedy, and Christmas Lights

In 2020, Nicole Hazen, the wife of Arizona Diamondbacks’ general manager Mike Hazen, wanted to have a festive Christmas after suffering a seizure that revealed a cancerous brain tumor. Knowing her husband’s aversion to climbing on the roof to install lights, Nicole suggested that Torey Lovullo, the Diamondbacks’ field manager, handle the task. Lovullo, known for his elaborate Christmas decorations, readily agreed. He adorned her home with elegant white bulbs, promising to take care of the lights every year. However, Nicole’s health deteriorated rapidly, and it became clear that she would succumb to glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Lovullo, true to his word, continued to maintain the Christmas lights, even after Nicole’s passing. They have remained lit throughout the year as a tribute to her memory.

Lovullo and Hazen share a unique bond that goes beyond their professional relationship. Diamondbacks CEO Derrick Hall describes it as “more than a working relationship” and believes that it sets the tone for the entire organization. Their partnership has been tested by adversity, ultimately strengthening their connection. Before their successful 2023 season, where the Diamondbacks made it to the playoffs and defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers, they faced a challenging 110-loss season in 2021. Their friendship was forever changed by the tragedy surrounding Nicole’s illness, but their shared experiences have created a magical dynamic within the organization.

Their friendship traces back to the summer of 2004, when Lovullo was managing the Cleveland Indians’ Class A affiliate, and Hazen served as Cleveland’s assistant director of player development. Lovullo rented a farmhouse in North Carolina, where Hazen would often visit, along with other colleagues, for late-night conversations on the front porch. They bonded over their contrasting personalities, with Lovullo being laid-back and calm, while Hazen was intense and hard-edged. Despite their 11-year age difference, they found common ground and enjoyed each other’s company.

Their friendship continued to flourish over the years, even as Lovullo transitioned from playing to coaching and managing. When Hazen was given the opportunity to run the Diamondbacks’ baseball operations department in 2016, he immediately hired Lovullo as the team’s manager. Hazen’s familiarity with Lovullo and their personal connection played a significant role in his decision.

Fast forward to the present day, and the Diamondbacks have experienced a remarkable turnaround. After finishing with the worst record in the sport in 2021, they now find themselves on the cusp of reaching their first pennant in 22 years. Hazen reflects on their journey and appreciates how far they have come. While their focus is on the current postseason games against the Philadelphia Phillies, Hazen acknowledges the significance of their progress.

The 2021 season was particularly challenging for both Hazen and Lovullo. As Hazen tried to balance his job responsibilities with caring for his four sons and supporting his ailing wife, Lovullo found himself facing immense pressure as the team struggled. Their arguments and disagreements, while not uncommon, reached a new level of intensity. Lovullo even snapped at Hazen during a heated phone conversation, making it personal and feeling remorseful afterward. However, they managed to resolve their differences, and Lovullo signed a contract extension shortly after the incident.

Their friendship and partnership have grown stronger through adversity. They have learned to navigate through difficult times, maintaining unwavering support for one another. Hazen’s strength and resilience during his wife’s illness and Lovullo’s commitment to keeping his promise of maintaining the Christmas lights have only deepened their bond. Their shared experiences have shaped the culture of the Diamondbacks organization, emphasizing the importance of trust, honesty, and genuine friendship.

As the Diamondbacks continue their postseason journey, Hazen and Lovullo remain grateful for how far they have come. The Christmas lights that Lovullo promised to maintain for Nicole Hazen now serve as a symbol of their enduring friendship and the resilience they have shown in the face of adversity.