D-backs fall to Astros 4-3 on July 23, 2025, as ex-D-back Christian Walker's 9th-inning hit completes a sweep. Marte homers, but it's not enough.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a gut-punch of a loss to cap off a brutal homestand. The Arizona Diamondbacks fell 4-3 to the Houston Astros on Wednesday night, completing a three-game sweep in the most painful way imaginable. After a spirited eighth-inning rally to tie the game, the dagger came in the ninth from a familiar face: former D-back Christian Walker, whose go-ahead single off Kevin Ginkel sealed Arizona's fate and sent them packing for a crucial road trip on a sour note.
We need to reset and focus on the fundamentals.
Just when it seemed the D-backs had stolen back the momentum, the ninth inning unraveled. After Josh Naylor's clutch hit tied the game 3-3 in the eighth, the hope in Chase Field was palpable. But the Astros loaded the bases against Kevin Ginkel, setting the stage for Walker's decisive RBI single. For fans, watching a former slugger be the architect of a sweep is a particularly bitter pill to swallow, dropping the team to 50-52 on the season.
Despite the loss, there were some incredible individual efforts. Shortstop Geraldo Perdomo was a one-man wrecking crew at the plate, going a perfect 4-for-4 and kickstarting the eighth-inning rally with a leadoff double. Ketel Marte also continued his stellar season, launching his 20th home run on the very first pitch of the game and later adding an RBI single. Even starter Brandon Pfaadt delivered a solid outing, allowing just one earned run over five-plus innings, giving his team a chance to win.
There's no time to dwell on the loss. After a much-needed off day on Thursday, the team embarks on a season-defining nine-game road trip. Manager Torey Lovullo stressed the importance of wiping the slate clean, telling reporters the team needs to 'reset and focus on the fundamentals.' With the team sitting below .500 and fourth in the NL West, this upcoming stretch against Pittsburgh, and beyond, will be a true test of their character and playoff aspirations.
With an off day to lick their wounds, the Diamondbacks face a critical juncture. This nine-game road trip, starting Friday in Pittsburgh, isn't just a series of games; it's a test of this team's resilience. Can they shake off the sting of this sweep and find their footing, or will they continue to slide? All eyes will be on how they respond when they take the field again.
