Diamondbacks’ Crucial Homestand: Can Gallen and Co. Right the Ship Against the Rockies?
The Arizona Diamondbacks are staring down a pivotal stretch that could define their season. After letting several opportunities slip away in a recent series against the San Diego Padres, the team finds itself seven games under .500 at 54-61. With a battered bullpen and rotation, the path back to contention looks increasingly challenging. However, the upcoming schedule offers a potential lifeline, featuring a seven-game stretch against the struggling Colorado Rockies, starting with a three-game series at Chase Field. This is where the D-backs *must* start their climb back over .500, as their season teeters on the brink.
Navigating Troubled Waters: The D-backs’ Season So Far
The narrative surrounding the Diamondbacks this season has been one of ‘what ifs’ and missed opportunities. While they’ve shown flashes of brilliance, inconsistency has plagued their efforts, particularly in crucial series. The recent home stand against the Padres exemplified this, with the team unable to capitalize on key moments, ultimately leading to a series loss despite competitive play.
The pitching staff, a cornerstone of past successes, has been hit hard by injuries and underperformance. A “beaten-up bullpen and rotation” presents a significant hurdle as the team heads into the latter half of the season. This precarious situation amplifies the importance of the upcoming series against Colorado.
The Rockies: A Favorable Matchup, But No Guarantees
Colorado, despite their 30-82 record, is a team that cannot be underestimated. The free-swinging nature of their lineup means they can pounce unexpectedly, and no series can be taken for granted. For the Diamondbacks, this is less about the opponent and more about seizing a golden opportunity to build momentum.
The D-backs’ recent performance against the Rockies in previous matchups paints a picture of potential dominance. However, past results are no guarantee of future success, especially given Arizona’s own struggles. The upcoming series is a litmus test for the team’s ability to execute and regain confidence.
Key Pitching Matchups: Gallen Leads the Charge
Friday, August 8: Zac Gallen vs. Austin Gomber
The series opener features a highly anticipated matchup between the D-backs’ ace, Zac Gallen (5.48 ERA), and the Rockies’ left-hander Austin Gomber (6.18 ERA). Gallen, despite a career-worst ERA this season, has shown signs of life, including a solid six-inning, two-run outing against the Oakland Athletics in his last start.
However, Gallen has historically struggled against the Rockies, surrendering 13 runs over 10 innings in two previous starts this season. For the Diamondbacks to start their resurgence, Gallen must find a way to reverse this trend and deliver a strong performance against Colorado. His ability to limit damage against this lineup will be crucial.
Austin Gomber, on the other hand, has also seen his ERA balloon. After a stint on the 60-day IL, Gomber has struggled to find consistency, pitching to well over a 6.00 ERA in both June and July. The D-backs offense historically has had success against him, including a nine-run outburst with 12 hits in a June 20 matchup. If Arizona can replicate that offensive firepower, it could set the tone for the series.
Saturday, August 9: Eduardo Rodriguez vs. Bradley Blalock
Saturday’s contest pits the D-backs’ Eduardo Rodriguez (5.53 ERA) against the Rockies’ rookie right-hander Bradley Blalock (7.68 ERA). Rodriguez has shown flashes of his capabilities, delivering a two-run, five-inning outing against the Athletics. However, like many of the D-backs’ pitchers, consistency remains an elusive target for him.
While Rodriguez hasn’t faced the Rockies yet this season, his previous outings against them in 2024 saw him give up five runs over 11.1 innings. This series presents him with a clean slate against a different opponent.
Bradley Blalock has been a roller-coaster ride for the Rockies, often finding himself shuttled between Triple-A and the majors. While he has experienced some standout performances, he’s also been prone to blow-up outings, allowing six or more runs in three of his seven starts. His last outing saw him give up seven runs over 5.2 innings against the Pittsburgh Pirates. He faced Arizona once in 2024, allowing three runs in 5.2 innings. This is a prime opportunity for the Diamondbacks’ offense to get back on track.
Sunday, August 10: Brandon Pfaadt vs. TBD
The series finale on Sunday will feature Brandon Pfaadt (5.02 ERA) for the Diamondbacks, with the Rockies yet to name their starter. Pfaadt’s season has been a microcosm of the D-backs’ struggles: two steps forward, one step back. After a rough outing against the Tigers, he rebounded with a strong 5.2 innings of two-run ball against the Padres, contributing to a series-opening win.
Pfaadt has had mixed results against the Rockies in 2024, giving up four runs in five innings in a June 22 start. The uncertainty of the Rockies’ starter adds another layer of intrigue to this matchup. If Pfaadt can build on his recent positive outing, it could provide a crucial series-clinching victory for Arizona.
Future Implications: Can This Series Spark a Turnaround?
The next ten games, dominated by this stretch against the Rockies, represent a critical juncture for the Arizona Diamondbacks. The ability to sweep or win at least six of these seven games is paramount if they hope to claw their way back to a .500 record and contend for a playoff spot. Failing to capitalize on this favorable schedule could prove to be a fatal blow to their postseason aspirations.
This series is more than just a collection of games; it’s a referendum on the team’s resilience and ability to execute under pressure. The performance of key pitchers like Zac Gallen and Eduardo Rodriguez, coupled with the consistent contributions from the lineup, will be closely watched. Success here could provide the much-needed momentum to tackle a tougher upcoming schedule.
The upcoming 10-game stretch against the Rockies is a microcosm of the Diamondbacks’ season: a chance to overcome adversity and prove their mettle. The path forward is clear, but the execution will be everything. Can Arizona seize this opportunity and begin its climb back into contention?
What are your predictions for the Diamondbacks’ upcoming series against the Rockies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
