D-backs grab a 3-2 victory over Rangers in the final inning thanks to a home run by Ketel Marte
Diamondbacks Sweep Rangers Behind Ketel Marte's Heroics
In a thrilling series, the Arizona Diamondbacks have swept the Texas Rangers, thanks in large part to the clutch hitting of Ketel Marte.
On August 12, Marte hit a dramatic game-winning home run, a 445-foot solo shot in the top of the ninth inning. This home run, pitched by Rangers reliever Danny Coulombe, broke a 2-2 tie and gave the Diamondbacks a 3-2 victory. The ball had an exit velocity of 111.7 mph with a 25-degree launch angle, marking Marte's 22nd homer of the season and the first homer Coulombe had allowed that year.
The following day, Marte continued his impressive performance, delivering a three-run home run from the left side in the ninth inning with two outs. This homer, which traveled 413 feet, broke a 3-4 deficit and led the Diamondbacks to a 6-4 win. Marte's performance, which included four hits including this key homer, helped Arizona sweep the series on the road, underlining his role as a central figure in their offense.
These clutch homers have significantly boosted the Diamondbacks' position in the NL wild-card race and intensified the rivalry with the Rangers. Manager Torey Lovullo praised Marte's ability to carry the team, highlighting the special nature of these game-winning hits.
Looking ahead, the strong showings by Marte against the Rangers add an intriguing narrative to upcoming Diamondbacks-Rangers matchups, with Marte clearly a player the Rangers must strategize against to prevent similar late-inning heroics. His performance also energizes the Diamondbacks’ push for a playoff spot, increasing internal confidence and fan excitement.
In the final game of the series between the Diamondbacks and the Rangers, Juan Morillo earned his first big-league save in the ninth inning for the Diamondbacks. The Rangers were held to four hits in the game and were 0 for 9 with runners in scoring position, leaving seven runners on base.
Diamondbacks starter Anthony DeSclafani allowed two runs in three innings in his fourth start of the season in 11 appearances. Jalen Beeks pitched 1 2/3 hitless innings for the Diamondbacks.
The Rangers, currently 6 1/2 games out of first place in the AL West, are also 3 1/2 games out of the league's last wild-card spot. The series finale will feature a matchup between Rangers RHP Merrill Kelly (9-7, 3.38 ERA) and Diamondbacks RHP Zac Gallen (9-12, 5.31). Merrill Kelly was acquired by the Rangers from the Diamondbacks on July 31.
The Diamondbacks have won four of their last five games and will aim to continue their strong form in their upcoming matches.
Read also:
- Massive 8.8 earthquake hits off the coast of Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting Japan to issue a tsunami alert.
- Court petitions to reverse established decision on same-sex marriage legalization
- Proposed Standardization of Food Labeling Laws Among Member States by the Commission
- Current News: AfD Achieves 26% - Union Dips to Laschet's Level
