The Diamondbacks were shut out 4-0 by the Royals on July 6, 2025, as Michael Lorenzen dominated. See how roster moves shake up the team for their next series.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Just when you thought the weekend couldn't get any more frustrating, the Diamondbacks' offense went completely silent. In a dispiriting 4-0 loss to the Kansas City Royals at Chase Field on Sunday, the bats managed a measly three hits, leaving fans with a sour taste heading into a pivotal road trip.
The Diamondbacks managed only three hits total and failed to advance a runner past second base all afternoon.
The box score tells a brutal story. Royals starter Michael Lorenzen carved up the D-backs lineup, striking out seven over seven masterful innings. Arizona's offense was non-existent, unable to string anything together against him. Anthony DeSclafani battled but was ultimately tagged with the loss, surrendering four runs in four innings, including back-to-back solo homers to Bobby Witt Jr. and Salvador Perez in the fifth. The loss was Arizona's fourth in their last five games, highlighting a troubling trend for a team with playoff aspirations.
The front office responded to the team's recent struggles and injury woes with a flurry of roster moves. Veteran reliever Ryan Thompson was placed on the 15-day IL with a right scapular strain, a blow to the bullpen. In his place, the team is bringing in fresh arms, recalling LHP Tommy Henry and RHP Bryce Jarvis from Triple-A Reno. To make room, LHP Kyle Nelson was sent outright to Reno. The most intriguing move might be the selection of outfielder Tristin English's contract from Reno, suggesting the team is desperate for any kind of offensive spark.
There's no time to dwell on the loss, as a daunting challenge awaits in San Diego. The Diamondbacks open a four-game series against the Padres, and they'll be greeted by a familiar, formidable foe: Yu Darvish. The five-time All-Star is set to be activated from the injured list to make his 2025 season debut on Monday. For an offense that just got shut out, facing a well-rested ace is the ultimate 'out of the frying pan, into the fire' scenario. Thankfully, the D-backs will counter with their own ace, Zac Gallen, setting up a must-see pitching duel to kick off the series.
Amidst the current struggles, there is a glimmer of positive news for the future. Reliever Kendall Graveman, sidelined since early June with a hip impingement, is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment in the Arizona Complex League on Tuesday. While his return isn't imminent—he's expected to pitch in the minors through the week—getting a key high-leverage arm back in the mix after the All-Star break would be a massive boost for the bullpen down the stretch.
The road ahead doesn't get any easier. With the offense sputtering and a tough divisional series on deck, this four-game set against the Padres feels like a turning point. Can the bats wake up against Darvish and the Padres' pitching staff? Can Zac Gallen play the role of stopper? The answers will tell us a lot about the character and resilience of this 2025 Diamondbacks team as the All-Star break looms.
