Brandon Pfaadt faced Elehuris Montero in a crucial moment, carefully weighing his options before settling on his fourth sinker in a six-pitch at-bat. This pitch isn't his go-to, but in his diverse arsenal, it's become a valuable tool. When Montero bounced the sinker to Geraldo Perdomo, Pfaadt effectively shut down the Diamondbacks' threat, preserving their lead.
Pfaadt's performance was pivotal, striking out six in five innings, allowing only one run. He kept the Rockies' batters guessing with a mix of four pitches, including a particularly effective sweeper that induced five whiffs. While this outing might have seemed routine compared to his standout playoff performance, it was a standout moment in his regular season, showcasing his potential to shine.
The Diamondbacks' victory wasn't solely thanks to Pfaadt. They opened strong, scoring three runs in the first inning, fueled by a Corbin Carroll walk, a Lourdes Gurriel Jr. single, and a two-run homer by Christian Walker. Even after Pfaadt's standout pitching, the team continued to excel offensively, adding two more runs in the fifth inning. Gurriel's impressive performance stands out, already boasting 10 RBIs, setting a record for the Diamondbacks' best start to a season.
Beyond individual performances, the Diamondbacks showcased a disciplined, error-free style of play throughout the series. They committed just one error and executed several key defensive plays, while also capitalizing on offensive opportunities, stealing five bases. In contrast, the Rockies struggled, finishing the series with three errors, highlighting the stark difference in performance between the two teams.
With their strong start to the season and a bolstered rotation, including acquisitions like Eduardo Rodriguez and Jordan Montgomery, the Diamondbacks have set themselves up for a potentially successful season, aiming to surpass last year's 84-win record. If Pfaadt can maintain his playoff form, the team could have a formidable fifth starter, adding to their already impressive lineup.
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