In his Arizona debut, Josh Bell hit home runs from both sides of the plate, helping the Diamondbacks secure a 9-8 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday night despite squandering a five-run lead. Bell, who was acquired from the Miami Marlins just two days earlier, delivered a crucial performance by contributing significantly to Arizona’s win.
Bell’s first homer in the first inning was part of a series of three consecutive home runs by the Diamondbacks. In the seventh inning, Bell came through again, hitting a game-tying homer against Aroldis Chapman’s 102.9 mph sinker, making it the fastest pitch ever hit for a home run since tracking began in 2008.
Following a challenging at-bat where Geraldo Perdomo fouled a ball off his knee, he managed to deliver a key double in the eighth inning, driving in the go-ahead run for Arizona. Perdomo’s resilience and contribution to the team’s victory reflected the Diamondbacks’ never-give-up attitude, extending their winning streak to four games and marking their eighth win in nine games.
Ketel Marte also played a crucial role, hitting two home runs in the game, including his 26th of the season in the ninth inning. Justin Martínez’s strong pitching performance in the eighth inning earned him the win, with the Diamondbacks’ manager Torey Lovullo praising the team’s unwavering determination and belief in securing the victory.
Despite Pittsburgh’s efforts to rally late in the game, with Oneil Cruz delivering a five-hit performance, the Pirates ultimately fell short. Cruz’s RBI single in the sixth inning helped Pittsburgh take the lead after trailing 5-0 early in the game. Nevertheless, Ryan Thompson’s pitching sealed the victory for Arizona, securing his second save of the season.
The game saw various lead changes and standout performances, including Corbin Carroll’s leadoff triple and Joc Pederson’s impressive 430-foot homer into the Allegheny River. Both teams showcased resilience and determination throughout the game, with the Diamondbacks ultimately emerging victorious over the Pirates.
In injury news, the Diamondbacks placed RHP Bryce Jarvis on the 15-day injured list due to a sprained right elbow, while Pirates’ INF/OF Isiah Kiner-Falefa began a rehab assignment for a left knee sprain. Looking ahead, fans can anticipate an exciting matchup between RHP Mitch Keller and LHP Jordan Montgomery in the next game.
