Chapman’s Daring Inside-the-Park Homer Powers Giants to 6-3 Victory, Signaling Trouble for Diamondbacks’ NL Playoff Hopes

The Arizona Diamondbacks fell to the San Francisco Giants 6-3 on Monday night, diminishing their playoff hopes. They currently hold the final wild-card spot but are only 1.5 games ahead of the Atlanta Braves.

The D-backs, with a record of 87-70, struggled to maintain their edge in the National League playoff race. Meanwhile, San Diego leads the wild-card standings with a 90-66 record. The Braves and New York Mets are jostling for playoff positioning in an upcoming three-game series that starts Tuesday in Atlanta.

D-backs center fielder Jake McCarthy noted the team’s commitment to playing hard. “We’ve had our foot on the gas pedal the whole season,” he said. “We’re going to bounce back tomorrow.”

Despite being out of contention, the Giants performed impressively against playoff hopefuls, sporting a 6-1 record over their last week against several contenders. This recent success poses a challenge for teams like Arizona trying to secure a postseason berth.

Monday’s game showcased a standout performance by Matt Chapman, who hit an inside-the-park home run. He laced a line drive deep into the left-center field, benefiting from a misplay by McCarthy. Chapman completed the run easily, highlighting his speed and urgency on the bases.

After a rough loss to the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, where the D-backs squandered an 8-0 lead, frustration lingered. “Today, we got beat,” acknowledged D-backs manager Torey Lovullo. “Their pitcher was making quality pitches, and we weren’t able to generate the offense.”

In the game’s fourth inning, Christian Walker provided a brief hope for Arizona with an RBI double to cut the deficit to 3-2. However, the Giants extended their lead with solo shots from Casey Schmitt and Michael Conforto, effectively sealing the game.

Diamondbacks pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez faced challenges, allowing five runs over 4 2/3 innings. He commented on the need to avoid mistakes, stating, “When you’re missing over the plate, you pay for it.”

Looking forward, the D-backs will start RHP Brandon Pfaadt in their next game against the Giants, who will send Logan Webb to the mound.

UPDATE ON INJURIES

Catcher Gabriel Moreno’s injury, sustained during Sunday’s game, appears not to be serious, and he may return as soon as Tuesday. Second baseman Ketel Marte received a day of rest but entered as a pinch hitter later in the game.

With tensions running high, the D-backs must regroup and focus on their next matchup to reinforce their wild-card position.