The Arizona Diamondbacks walked away from their three-game set with the Texas Rangers having done just enough to keep their playoff hopes firmly intact. Winning two out of three against the defending champs wasn’t technically perfect (the bullpen still found ways to make things interesting), but it was the kind of resilient, late-inning baseball that could define their stretch run.
Game 1: A Golden Opportunity Slips Away It all started with a dream scenario: a 6–1 lead in the opener, built on Blaze
Alexander’s power and a steady start from Ryne Nelson. But the Rangers chipped away, capitalizing on mistakes, and the D-backs’ bullpen couldn’t hold the line. Trevor Hoffman’s extended appearance in the ninth ended with Texas tying the game, and extra innings brought a 7–6 walk-off loss that felt like one the Diamondbacks should have pocketed.
Game 2: Marte Takes Over
If Game 1 was a gut punch, Game 2 was a reminder of how quickly momentum can swing. Arizona’s offense continued to stall with runners in scoring position, but Ketel Marte refused to let the game slip away. After tying the score with a 7th-inning single, Marte came back in the ninth and crushed a go-ahead shot, sealing a 3–2 win and evening the series. Corbin Carroll’s speed and Jose Herrera’s timely hitting set the stage, but it was Marte who stole the spotlight.
Game 3: Pitching, Defense, and a Familiar Hero
A showdown we never thought we’d see: Zac Gallen versus Merrill Kelly. Kelly mowed down our batters, but we managed to get a couple of timely hits to make a difference. Fittingly, Marte delivered again, his MLB-leading 12th ninth-inning homer since 2024, putting Arizona ahead 4–2. He then made a diving catch in the bottom half to preserve the lead, and Saalfrank finished it off with his first save of the year.
Stars of the Series
Marte’s week was nothing short of spectacular: two game-winning homers, elite defense, and leadership when the team needed it most. Blaze Alexander provided early pop, and Corbin provided some power in moments that mattered.
The Bigger Picture
The D-backs leave the series tied for 3rd in the NL West with the Giants, and within striking distance of a wild card spot. But the blueprint for improvement is clear: tighten up the bullpen and convert more opportunities with runners in scoring position. That 2-for-28 mark over the first two games won’t cut it in September.
Now comes a four-game set in Denver against the Rockies, a team and ballpark known for high-scoring unpredictability. With the possibility of Bryce Jarvis joining the roster, Arizona has a chance to build serious momentum.
The margin for error is thin, but this series proved one thing. When the Diamondbacks get timely hitting and solid pitching, they’re capable of beating anyone.
