In a must-win Game 3 of the National League Championship Series, the Arizona Diamondbacks made a bold move that paid off, securing a thrilling 2-1 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in front of a raucous home crowd. While it might have been a questionable decision, it ultimately proved successful for Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo.
The crucial move came when Lovullo decided to pull his starting pitcher, Brandon Pfaadt, who had been pitching masterfully, out of the game in the sixth inning to the chorus of boos from the fans. Pfaadt had struck out nine batters and had kept the Phillies off the scoreboard, showcasing an impressive performance.
Despite the initial controversy surrounding the decision, the Diamondbacks’ bullpen stepped up, allowing just one hit for the rest of the game. Then, in the bottom of the ninth, the moment of triumph arrived. Ketel Marte, who already had two doubles in the game, drove in the winning run with a one-out, bases-loaded single, sealing the 2-1 win for the Diamondbacks.
Paul Sewald, the Diamondbacks’ closer, was credited with the win after delivering a scoreless top of the ninth inning. The Arizona pitching staff, collectively, allowed only three hits during the game.
Marte’s performance in this postseason continued to impress, as he extended his hitting streak to 12 games. He is now one of just six players in MLB history to have a hit in each of his first 12 career postseason games.
The Phillies had initially taken the lead in the seventh inning, with Bryce Harper scoring on a two-out wild pitch. However, the Diamondbacks fought back in the bottom of the frame, tying the game with an RBI double by Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
Despite multiple opportunities to take the lead, including runners at the corners with no outs, the Diamondbacks couldn’t capitalize on their chances.
Pfaadt was a standout for Arizona, keeping the powerful Phillies offense at bay by striking out nine batters, holding them to two hits, and allowing no walks.
On the opposing side, Ranger Suarez had an equally strong performance for the Phillies, striking out seven in 5 1/3 scoreless innings and yielding just three hits and one walk.
While Lovullo’s decision to pull Pfaadt may have initially sparked controversy, the Diamondbacks ultimately prevailed in the must-win game, keeping their hopes alive in the NLCS. With the series now at 2-1 in favor of the Phillies, both teams are gearing up for Game 4 and Game 5, which are scheduled to take place in Phoenix. The stakes remain high as both teams are vying for a spot in the World Series, and the thrilling and unpredictable series continues.
