Corbin Burnes’ Return Powers Diamondbacks’ Hopes Against Dodgers in Key NL West Matchup
PHOENIX – All eyes are on Corbin Burnes as he returns to the mound Saturday night, aiming to boost the Arizona Diamondbacks in Game 3 of a heated four-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Burnes, a former Cy Young winner, had to skip his last start due to shoulder inflammation—his first missed rotation slot since a COVID-related IL stint in 2021. But with a cortisone shot behind him and a clear focus on long-term health, Burnes is eager to make an impact.
“Could I have pitched last time? Probably. But would I have been at 80-85%? Also probably,” Burnes admitted. “The bigger picture matters more—we’re trying to avoid a three-month injury over one missed start.”
Diamondbacks Need Length After Bullpen Burnout
Friday’s game—a chaotic 14-11 loss to the Dodgers—forced Arizona to use six pitchers. A late-game collapse turned an 11-8 lead into a loss after Shohei Ohtani launched a three-run homer during a six-run ninth inning.
Now, Burnes (1-1, 3.58 ERA) is being counted on to go deep into the game and stabilize the rotation. Check the Latest Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers
Ohtani’s Power Continues to Shock
Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani continues to dominate headlines with his clutch heroics. He went 3-for-6 against Burnes in prior meetings, including a leadoff home run last year. Manager Dave Roberts didn’t hold back:
“Between him and Barry Bonds, the two best players I’ve ever seen,” said Roberts. “I’ve never seen anything like what Shohei does in big moments.”
Dustin May: Another Comeback Story
Starting opposite Burnes is Dustin May (1-2, 4.36 ERA), who has faced an uphill battle of his own. May returned this season after missing most of the last three years due to Tommy John surgery, a flexor tendon repair, and even a torn esophagus.
In his last outing, May gave up four runs in 5 2/3 innings but showed flashes of potential. Still, Roberts noted the need for greater endurance from his starters:
“They’ve got to go deeper. That’s just how it goes,” Roberts remarked, noting the Dodgers’ league-low 176 innings pitched by starters.
What’s at Stake?
This game could shift the momentum in the National League West standings, with both teams vying for supremacy. Each team has a win in this series so far—Arizona took Thursday’s opener 5-3, and the Dodgers responded with Friday’s comeback thriller.
Can Burnes Deliver in the Clutch?
With his arm rested and expectations high, Burnes represents Arizona’s best shot at rebounding after Friday’s bullpen breakdown. Meanwhile, the Dodgers will hope that May can match him inning-for-inning in what’s shaping up to be a pivotal showdown.
Final Thoughts
Saturday’s game is more than just another regular-season outing—it’s a test of resilience, health, and postseason ambitions. If Corbin Burnes can rise to the occasion, the Diamondbacks might reclaim momentum. But with Dustin May battling back from years of adversity and Ohtani always lurking, the Dodgers remain a formidable force.
Stay tuned for what promises to be a dramatic night in Phoenix.