Arizona Diamondbacks ace Eduardo Rodriguez came agonizingly close to history on Mother’s Day, delivering a dominant 8.1-inning performance in a 5-1 victory over the New York Mets at Chase Field. The win—his fourth straight—kept the Diamondbacks’ playoff hopes alive while showcasing Rodriguez’s resilience after a season that has seen him battle injuries and setbacks. With one out in the ninth inning, Rodriguez was pulled from the game, leaving fans and analysts to wonder if a complete-game shutout had slipped through his fingers yet again.
Rodriguez, who entered the game with a 3.25 ERA on the season, struck out 10 Mets batters while allowing just two runs on three hits. His performance was a testament to his ability to dominate opposing lineups, even as the Diamondbacks’ bullpen stepped in to secure the win. The loss marked the Mets’ third straight defeat, dropping them to 10-12 on the season and further widening the gap between the NL East rivals.
The Diamondbacks’ offense, led by Corbin Carroll’s two-run homer in the third inning, provided enough support to keep the game out of the bullpen’s hands for as long as possible. But it was Rodriguez’s command that stole the show, as he navigated a tough matchup against the Mets’ lineup with precision. His exit came with two outs and one on base in the ninth, a moment that left many questioning whether a complete-game shutout—something he has chased all season—was within reach.
Rodriguez’s near-complete game performance underscores his growing reputation as one of the National League’s most reliable pitchers. Since returning from a shoulder injury in May, he has pitched to a 2.89 ERA in 11 starts, proving his durability and dominance. The Diamondbacks’ bullpen, led by closer Josh Hader, closed the door in the ninth to preserve the win, but the focus remained on Rodriguez’s near-historic effort.
Dominance on the mound, but the bullpen seals the deal
Rodriguez’s outing was marked by several standout moments, including a 97 mph fastball in the second inning that left Mets hitters swinging at nothing. His ability to mix in his signature curveball and changeup kept the Mets off balance, with only two hits allowed—both singles—that failed to generate any real run-scoring opportunities.
The Diamondbacks’ bullpen, however, played a crucial role in securing the victory. After Rodriguez exited, relievers Zach Eflin and Hader combined to strike out three of the final four batters, ensuring the Mets did not rally. The win improved Arizona’s record to 12-10, keeping them in contention for a Wild Card berth in the NL playoffs.
A season of resilience and near-misses
Rodriguez’s performance on Mother’s Day was the latest in a season that has seen him overcome adversity. After missing time due to a shoulder injury, he returned in May and has since pitched to a 2.89 ERA in 11 starts, including two complete games. His ability to bounce back from setbacks has earned him praise from teammates and analysts alike.
However, the near-complete game on Sunday was not the first time Rodriguez has come up just short of history. In his last start against the San Diego Padres, he also left the game with two outs in the ninth, this time due to a tired arm. The pattern has led to speculation about whether Rodriguez can sustain his dominance over a full 162-game season, especially as the Diamondbacks push for a playoff spot.
“He’s been incredible this year,” Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said after the game. “Every time he goes out there, he gives us a chance to win. Today was no different. He dominated, and we just had to trust the bullpen to finish it.”
What’s next for Rodriguez and the Diamondbacks?
The Diamondbacks’ next challenge comes this weekend, as they welcome the San Francisco Giants to Chase Field. Rodriguez is expected to start the series, giving him another opportunity to build on his recent dominance. Meanwhile, the Mets will look to rebound from their three-game losing streak as they head to Cincinnati.
For Rodriguez, the focus will remain on consistency. While a complete-game shutout may still be on the horizon, his ability to pitch deep into games and keep his team in contention is exactly what the Diamondbacks need as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
As for the fans, the question remains: Will Rodriguez finally achieve that elusive complete-game shutout, or will another near-miss leave them wanting more?
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