Diamondbacks Adjust Pitching Rotation Amid Playoff Push
The Arizona Diamondbacks are making strategic adjustments to their pitching rotation as they intensify their pursuit of a postseason berth. With the final three series of the regular season approaching, the team is transitioning to a four-man starting rotation.
Rotation Change Details
Nabil Crismatt will move to the bullpen to provide long relief. The adjusted rotation will feature Brandon Pfaadt, Ryne Nelson, Zac Gallen, and Eduardo Rodriguez. Manager Torey Lovullo emphasized the value of having dependable length in the bullpen during this crucial stretch, praising Crismatt's recent performance. The move is designed to optimize matchups against key opponents.
"Nothing against Crismatt, he’s been throwing the ball extremely well. We felt like there would be some value to get dependable length out of the bullpen. We wanted to match up the best way we could against the most critical teams at the most critical times." - Torey Lovullo
Playoff Implications and Schedule
Two upcoming off days will allow each starter to maintain regular rest. As of Wednesday, the Diamondbacks were 1.5 games behind the New York Mets for the third National League Wild Card spot. According to the planned rotation, Ryne Nelson is slated to pitch the season finale, while Zac Gallen is positioned to start a potential Game 1 of a playoff series.
Updated Diamondbacks Rotation Schedule
| Date | Pitcher | Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | Pfaadt | San Francisco |
| Friday | Nelson | Philadelphia |
| Saturday | Gallen | Philadelphia |
| Sunday | Rodriguez | Philadelphia |
| Tuesday | Pfaadt | Los Angeles |
| Wednesday | Nelson | Los Angeles |
| Thursday | Gallen | Los Angeles |
| Friday | Rodriguez | at San Diego |
| Saturday | Pfaadt | at San Diego |
| Sunday | Nelson | at San Diego |
Recent Pitching Performance
Over their last 30 games, the Diamondbacks boast a starting pitcher ERA of 3.75, ranking eighth in Major League Baseball. Gallen has posted a 2.45 ERA in his six starts during that span, while Nelson has a 2.97 ERA. Crismatt has also been effective, with a 2.70 ERA in 30 innings as a key bullpen addition.
Pfaadt's Outing Against the Giants
In a crucial game against the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday, September 17, Brandon Pfaadt delivered a strong performance, pitching six scoreless innings. Through 5 1/2 innings, the game remained scoreless. Pfaadt had six strikeouts and allowed only one hit. Prior to that hit, the Giants had been hitless for 11 1/3 consecutive innings against Arizona pitching. The Diamondbacks had an opportunity to score against Giants starter Justin Verlander, but were unable to capitalize.
Looking Ahead
The Diamondbacks are looking to capitalize on their current momentum and make a strong push for the playoffs. The team's adjusted rotation aims to optimize their chances of success and solidify their position in the National League Wild Card race. Their next series starts on September 19th at Chase Field against the Philadelphia Phillies, following an off day on September 18th.
