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Diamondbacks’ Brandon Pfaadt Faces Stern Test Against Dodgers’ Formidable Offense
Arizona Diamondbacks’ right-hander Brandon Pfaadt is in for a big test as he gets ready to face the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday. After his best start of the season, Pfaadt will need to be at the top of his game to handle the Dodgers’ powerhouse offense.
Pfaadt’s Recent Performance
Pfaadt’s last outing was impressive. He pitched seven strong innings against the Cincinnati Reds, giving up only one run on two hits and striking out nine batters. This stellar performance was key in the Diamondbacks’ 2-1 win. Despite this, Pfaadt hasn’t notched a win since his season opener, showing some ups and downs in his performances.
The Challenge Ahead
The Dodgers are no easy opponents. They’re leading the National League in many offensive stats, like batting average (.259), hits (439), walks (202), on-base percentage (.340), slugging percentage (.435), OPS (.775), and home runs (66). This firepower was evident in Monday’s series opener when Freddie Freeman’s grand slam in the third inning helped the Dodgers secure a 6-4 victory.
Pfaadt knows what he’s up against. Last season, he faced the Dodgers twice and lost both times, giving up a total of ten runs (nine earned) over 8 2/3 innings, leading to a 9.35 ERA. Both Freddie Freeman and Jason Heyward homered off him in those games.
Strategic Adjustments
Despite the tough road ahead, Pfaadt is staying positive. His recent success against the Reds came from using more sliders. “Our game plan was to use more sliders, and we certainly did that and it was super effective,” Pfaadt said. “So I think moving forward, that’s probably going to be our game plan, to pitch off of the slider a little bit more.”
Gavin Stone’s Consistent Performance
On the mound for the Dodgers will be right-hander Gavin Stone, who has been in top form. In his second major league season, Stone has allowed just one run in each of his past four starts. Over his last six games, he’s 4-0 with a 2.00 ERA. His most recent win against the San Francisco Giants came despite three walks, a minor issue in his otherwise solid performances.
Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts has high praise for Stone. “You want all your players to be dependable and know what you’re gonna get when they go out there and play and he’s becoming that,” Roberts said. “He’s on a nice run right now and I think this is who he is. He’s only going to get better.”
Dodgers’ Offensive Power
Alongside their strong pitching, the Dodgers’ offense is a major threat. In Monday’s game, Enrique Hernandez and Will Smith also hit home runs alongside Freeman’s grand slam. Freeman’s consistent power, with at least 20 home runs in every non-pandemic season since 2016, is a driving force for the team.
Conclusion
As Brandon Pfaadt prepares for this crucial matchup against the Dodgers, he carries the momentum of his recent success and a plan to use his slider more effectively. However, the Dodgers’ dominant offense and Gavin Stone’s steady pitching will make this a tough game for the Diamondbacks’ pitcher. Fans can expect an exciting game, with Pfaadt needing to bring his best to lead his team to victory.
