Pirates vs Diamondbacks predictions
Bryan Reynolds has been scorching hot lately for the Pittsburgh Pirates, fresh off a four-hit performance that’s got everyone in Pittsburgh buzzing. With his swing dialed in, I’m looking for Reynolds to notch another multi-hit game, maybe even drive in a run or two from the heart of the order. Andrew McCutchen is another guy who tends to rise to the occasion in these tight matchups—expect him to get on base a couple of times and do some damage with his legs or his bat. Over at shortstop, Oneil Cruz brings that power-speed combo, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he contributes with an extra-base hit or even sneaks in a stolen base. On the mound, Paul Skenes is the probable starter, and while Chase Field can be a tricky place for pitchers, Skenes has the strikeout stuff to keep Arizona’s bats honest for at least five solid innings.
Looking at the Arizona Diamondbacks, Corbin Carroll stands out as a difference-maker. He’s been mashing homers and with his knack for clutch hits, I could easily see him putting one over the fence or at least picking up a couple of RBIs to give Zac Gallen some breathing room. Speaking of Gallen, he’s been steady all year and pitching at home should play in his favor. Don’t sleep on Ketel Marte or Lourdes Gurriel Jr. either—both have a knack for timely hits and can set the table or clean it up depending on what the lineup needs. Geraldo Perdomo’s consistency at the plate could also see him picking up at least a couple of hits in this one, especially against a Pirates pitching staff that’s had its struggles.
So who takes it? Given how well Zac Gallen usually commands the mound at Chase Field and the way the Diamondbacks have been swinging the bats—ranking much higher in runs scored and team average—it’s tough not to lean Arizona in this matchup. Sure, Reynolds and the Pirates have the potential to break out, but the Diamondbacks’ offensive consistency and home-field advantage make them my pick to edge out Pittsburgh this time around. But hey, that’s the beauty of baseball—anything can happen. What’s your gut feeling?
