Sat Sep 07 23:33:25 UTC 2024: ## Diamondbacks Drop Second Straight to Astros, Losing Ground in Wild Card Race
The Arizona Diamondbacks suffered a second consecutive blowout loss to the Houston Astros, falling 11-5 at Minute Maid Park on Saturday night. The loss drops the Diamondbacks to 8-12 in their last 20 games and further complicates their Wild Card aspirations.
The Astros scored four runs in the fourth and five in the sixth inning to put the game out of reach for Arizona. Diamondbacks starter Eduardo Rodríguez, who had a strong start to the game, struggled in the fourth, giving up four runs and exiting after just four innings. The bullpen also faltered, with Dylan Floro allowing five runs in the sixth inning.
Despite the pitching woes, the Diamondbacks’ offense kept up a decent pace. Kevin Newman and Eugenio Suárez hit home runs, and the team recorded 10 hits overall. However, they left eight runners on base and failed to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo highlighted the need for his team to execute better in critical moments, particularly in pitching and defense. Despite the recent struggles and the dwindling number of games remaining, Lovullo remains optimistic about their chances. “We’re going to be okay,” he said. “We got to go out and play our game and do things the way we can. Not get sidetracked, not get distracted.”
The Diamondbacks will look to salvage the series finale on Sunday as they send Ryne Nelson (10-6, 4.15 ERA) against Justin Verlander (3-5, 4.52 ERA). First pitch is scheduled for 4:10 P.M. MST at Minute Maid Park and will be broadcast on ESPN’s Sunday Night Baseball.
First Piper 