The Diamondbacks were swept by the Cardinals in a series filled with wasted hits, clutch failures, and managerial missteps, leaving fans questioning whether it’s time for major changes in the dugout and beyond.
In the latest episode of Dbacks Dispatch, hosts Gabriel and Brandon deliver a passionate and at times exasperated breakdown of the Arizona Diamondbacks’ sweep at the hands of the St. Louis Cardinals. Despite out-hitting the Redbirds across the three-game set, the D-backs fell short in every contest, dropping to one game below .500 and leaving the fanbase, and themselves, wondering if this team is fundamentally broken.
Same Story, Different Series
Brandon and Gabe set the tone immediately: this one hurt more than the others. While previous series were frustrating, this sweep marked a tipping point. The team has now lost too many close games, too many winnable series, and too many chances to show growth. As Brandon put it, “Good teams win ugly games. Bad teams lose them. We’ve lost every single one.”
The numbers back it up: 30 hits in the series, but only 11 runs scored. The team went 6-for-26 with runners in scoring position, failing repeatedly in high-leverage moments. The Cardinals, on the other hand, didn’t need many chances, they just came through when it mattered.
Missed Opportunities and No Clutch Gene
Zac Gallen went 5.2 innings, allowing 4 runs on 3 hits and 4 walks. While not dominant, the hosts argued he pitched well enough to win. The bullpen was solid, with Moreno, Morillo, McGough, and Thompson combining for just one hit allowed in relief. But the offense couldn’t deliver, going silent when it counted.
Kelly Shoves, Lovullo Leaves Him In
Merrill Kelly pitched well through six innings, but the game unraveled in the seventh. After allowing a single and a long 10-pitch at-bat by Nolan Arenado, Lovullo left him in too long. The Cardinals took the lead off a clearly gassed Kelly, and Justin Martinez gave up two key runs in his return. Despite Kelly’s quality, it was another night where the offense couldn’t pick up the slack.
Another Strong Start, Same Result
Brandon Pfaadt put together a respectable start: 5.2 IP, 3 ER, 5 K, but Kevin Ginkel allowed an inherited runner to score, ultimately costing the D-backs the game. The offense again had 10 hits but only managed three runs, going 2-for-10 with runners in scoring position. One solo homer by Randal Grichuk was the only power on display.
Big Picture Problems
Clutch Offense Doesn’t Exist
The team is hitting, but not when it counts. The stat lines look fine on paper, but the actual run production is pitiful. The only consistent contributor with runners in scoring position is Geraldo Perdomo, and the hosts suggest moving him to the 2-hole to give him more at-bats.
Offensive Philosophy Crisis
The offense has no identity. The chaos ball teams of the past have disappeared, replaced by a lineup obsessed with home runs that rarely come. Brandon and Gabe slammed Joe Mather, the team’s hitting coach, for letting this approach fester.
Time to Shake Up the Staff?
While some fans are calling to fire Torey Lovullo, we’re urging caution. Firing Tori likely means promoting Jeff Banister, who brings the same analytics-driven approach. They argue the more effective short-term change is to replace Joe Mather and the hitting staff entirely. They also question the front office’s inability to develop pitching depth or bullpen reinforcements.
Strategic Failures and Overtrust
Multiple moments in the series highlight Lovullo’s tendency to trust pitchers too long. Both Gallen and Kelly were left in well after showing signs of fatigue. The bullpen wasn’t to blame in this series, it was overuse of starters, and lack of situational awareness.
Changes Needed Fast
The D-backs are one game under .500 and spiraling. With a soft homestand ahead (Pirates and Nationals), the next week could determine whether this team can salvage its season, or if it’s time to start making tough decisions.
If they go 4–2 or better, there’s hope. But if it’s another stumble? Fans may not just want change, they may demand it.