Sat Jul 19 00:50:00 UTC 2025: **Diamondbacks Shake Up Rotation as Play Resumes After Break**
**PHOENIX, AZ** – The Arizona Diamondbacks are heading into the second half of the season with a new pitching rotation aimed at gaining ground in the National League Wild Card race. Manager Torey Lovullo has strategically adjusted the lineup based on upcoming matchups, prioritizing games against both the St. Louis Cardinals and the Houston Astros.
Brandon Pfaadt will take the mound in Friday’s series opener against the Cardinals, followed by Ryne Nelson on Saturday, and Merrill Kelly on Sunday. This moves Kelly ahead of Zac Gallen, who will start Monday against Houston. Eduardo Rodriguez will round out the rotation.
“We gotta chase down a few teams,” Lovullo said, emphasizing the careful consideration that went into the changes.
The Cardinals, currently 1.5 games ahead of the Wild Card spot, will counter with Andre Pallante, Sonny Gray, and Miles Mikolas as their probable starters. Arizona trails St. Louis by four games and is looking to avenge a previous series sweep in St. Louis.
Pfaadt, coming off an impressive eight-inning performance, expressed optimism: “We have the talent in this locker room to make a run and make those 5.5 games up.”
In other news, All-Star Ketel Marte has been placed on the restricted list for personal reasons, and the team re-signed Sergio Alcantara for the sixth time. RHP Shelby Miller has begun a throwing program after seeking a second opinion on a flexor strain.
In order to make a case to Diamondbacks GM MIke Hazen not to sell, manager Torey Lovullo said his team needs to start by getting over .500.
Adding to the game day experience, the Diamondbacks are offering free admission to kids for this weekend’s home series against the Cardinals.
Finally, Scottsdale Police are investigating a high-dollar burglary at the location of a house listed as owned by Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star Ketel Marte.
First Piper 