Diamondbacks “Rock The Rockies” In Season Opener

PHOENIX, AZ-  You really could not have asked for better weather than what we got here in Phoenix tonight for the season opener between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies.  A sold out crowd, composed of fans from both teams were treated with blue skies, around 80 degrees, and an open roof at Chase Field in downtown Phoenix.  Obviously, there were more Diamondbacks fans there than Rockies fans.

And they were treated to an offensive show by the home team, led by Jake Lamb, who went 2-5 with key hits in the 1st and 6th innings, driving in 4 runs, both times with the bases loaded.  Lamb played in the 5th spot for the Diamondbacks tonight, originally supposed to belong to Souza.  But with Souza’s injury and him being on the DL for the start of the season, Lamb had to step up and protect Goldschmidt in the 5th spot.  Especially with Goldschmidt going hitless in the game, even though he did reach base three times via walks.

Two other primary contributors to the offensive surge in the opener for the Diamondbacks were David Perralta, and Jerrod Dyson.  Perralta would go 3-5 with three singles (all to right field), and he also scored twice.  Dyson would show his speed twice in tonight’s game.  The first was in the 6th inning when he easily legged out a bunt.  And the second time when he had a standing triple to right field.  He would also score twice on the night.  Every starting position player in the lineup, besides the pitcher, got on base tonight.

Speaking of the starting pitcher.  How nice was it for the Diamondbacks to start their #3 pitcher in the rotation on opening night, and have him give a solid start, which included 5 2/3rds innings, allowing only 7 hits, giving up 2 earned runs, and striking out 8 batters along the way!!  Patrick Corbin pitched one of his better outings and he did it quite simply.  He did give up two long balls, to LeMahieu and Arenado, but all the other hits were singles.

The Diamondbacks will continue their six-game home stand to start the season tomorrow against the Rockies.  Robbie Ray will be on the mound for Arizona.

Side Note:  Tonight also was the return of the Bullpen Cart to the Arizona Diamondbacks.  But not pitchers actually used it during the game.

By Jeff Demers

Heroes Media Group