D-backs host the Cardinals on July 18 as Brandon Pfaadt starts. With Kendall Graveman back, can Eugenio Suárez power Arizona to a crucial home win? Find out.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The desert air is buzzing with anticipation as the Arizona Diamondbacks (47-50) prepare to host the St. Louis Cardinals (51-46) at Chase Field tonight. In a pivotal series opener, the D-backs will look to get back on track and defend their home turf, with a freshly reinforced bullpen ready to back up starter Brandon Pfaadt.
With 31 home runs and 78 RBI, Eugenio Suárez remains the offensive anchor the D-backs will rely on to spark the lineup against St. Louis.
The main event at Chase Field features a critical pitching duel. The Diamondbacks are sending Brandon Pfaadt (9-6, 5.16 ERA) to the mound to face the Cardinals' Andre Pallante (5-5, 4.49 ERA). While Pfaadt's ERA is higher than he'd like, he's been a workhorse, logging 99.1 innings and securing nine wins for the club. He'll need to be sharp against a tough Cardinals lineup. On offense, Arizona will look to the power of Eugenio Suárez (.250 AVG, 31 HR, 78 RBI) and the consistent bat of Josh Naylor (.294 AVG) to provide the run support needed to secure a much-needed home victory.
The bullpen received a significant boost just in time for the series. Veteran right-hander Kendall Graveman has been reinstated from the 15-day injured list after recovering from a right hip impingement. His return adds a steady, experienced arm to the late innings. The move does come with a corresponding loss, as lefty Jalen Beeks was placed on the 15-day IL due to lower back inflammation, retroactive to July 8. While Beeks' presence will be missed, getting a key setup man like Graveman back is a major plus for manager Torey Lovullo.
Sitting at 47-50, the Diamondbacks understand the importance of this series. Facing a Cardinals team that's five games above .500 presents a perfect litmus test as the season's second half gets into full swing. A strong performance this weekend could provide a massive momentum shift and help the D-backs climb back in the competitive NL West standings. Every game counts, and starting the series with a win at home is paramount.
Tonight is more than just another game; it's a statement opportunity. With a key bullpen arm back in the fold and a chance to gain ground on a fellow contender, the Diamondbacks have a prime opportunity to set a positive tone for the weekend and the crucial weeks ahead. All eyes will be on Chase Field to see if they can rise to the occasion.
