Opinion
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Diamondbacks and Cubs: Who Will Emerge Victorious in the Upcoming Showdown?

As the Diamondbacks prepare to face off against the Chicago Cubs, fans are eager to see if their team can turn around a recent string of challenging games. The upcoming game at Chase Field on April 17th is a chance for Arizona to demonstrate resilience and strategy, but will it be enough?


Mar 8, 2024; Salt River Pima-Maricopa, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suarez (28) makes the play for an out against the Chicago Cubs in the fourth inning at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

The Diamondbacks have had a rocky start this season, with their most recent game against the New York Yankees ending in a 5-2 loss. Despite being on home turf, Arizona struggled at bat with an overall batting average of just .133 and leaving 16 runners on base. The bullpen showed promise though, maintaining an ERA of 0.0 over 6.1 innings pitched.


In contrast, during their last encounter with the Colorado Rockies on March 31st, Arizona's performance was more robust. They secured a win with five runs scored off five hits and maintained flawless fielding without any errors – showcasing their defensive capabilities.


Mar 8, 2024; Salt River Pima-Maricopa, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher Kevin Ginkel (37) throws against the Chicago Cubs in the fourth inning at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

However, consistency has been an issue for AZ as evidenced by another game against Colorado where they suffered from one error that contributed to their loss despite scoring four runs off eight hits.


Looking ahead to the match against CHC, it's crucial for AZ's hitters to step up and capitalize on run-scoring opportunities – something they've struggled with recently as seen by their zero hit rate with runners in scoring position (RISP) against New York.


Mar 8, 2024; Salt River Pima-Maricopa, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher Kevin Ginkel (37) throws against the Chicago Cubs in the fourth inning at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

The pitching staff will also need to be at its best; while starters have had mixed results lately, there’s potential in relievers like Nick Burdi who held his own in previous outings.


For Chicago Cubs fans watching closely, they'll be keenly aware that AZ’s bullpen could pose a significant challenge if they bring forward the same level of play as seen against NY Yankees' lineup.


With all eyes set on Chase Field come April 17th at 6:40 PM local time (Arizona), fans can catch all the action live through ARID network broadcasts. It’s here where we’ll find out if Diamondbacks’ strategic adjustments pay off or if Cubs’ prowess takes center stage once again.

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