Let’s see if “momentum” is a real thing…
Roster moves
The Arizona Diamondbacks made the following roster moves. The D-backs’ 40-man roster is at 40.
- Signed as a Major League free agent: RHP Anthony DeSclafani (No. 21)
- Optioned to Triple-A Reno following last night’s game: RHP Bryce Jarvis
- Transferred to the 60-Day Injured List: RHP Justin Martinez (sprained right ulnar collateral ligament)
Well, that was bracing. Truly snatching victory from the jaws of defeat. The D-backs became (per OptaStats) the first team to win three games before the All-Star break, after trailing by 4+ in the ninth since… Well, since the All-Star break became a thing. Which would be almost a century. It has been quite the season for spectacularly memorable wins AND losses this year. There will be severe competition for Game of the Year come the SnakePit awards. And it’s only June. But the bottom line is, the D-backs have clinched the series win and, if momentum is a thing (though personally, I’m skeptical), should have a golden opportunity to complete the sweep over a divisional and wild-card rival.
They’ll send Merrill Kelly to the mound, who hasn’t lost since May 7, and has yet to allow a run in June. He blanked the Braves over seven innings of one-hit ball in Atlanta, then added six more scoreless frames against the Mariners. We haven’t had a starter go three consecutive outings of 6+ innings without allowing a run since Zac Gallen in April 2023. Today would be an excellent time for that record to be broken. Over his last eleven outings, covering 67 innings, Merrill has a stellar K:BB ratio of 72:12, striking out six batters for every walk. It’s remarkable considering he struggled there early on, walking more than he K’d (7:9) across his first three outings.
However, let’s not underestimate the Padres, who will be fully motivated to overturn a painful loss and end their losing streak at three. If they do not, then the Diamondbacks will be just 1.5 games back of a wild-card spot. I might have to start checking the standings on a daily basis again… therealramona on the guest recap, as Dano mentioned in his report – didn’t send the usual reminder to our guest, on that basis! I won’t be around for the early stages, since we’re off to a matinee of Ballerina, but should be back for the end or thereabouts. Hopefully in time for the D-backs to clinch another sweep, and extend their winning streak to a season high six games.