Gurriel’s Game-Changing Homer Lifts Diamondbacks Over Brewers 7-4

MILWAUKEE — Lourdes Gurriel Jr. made a striking return from the injured list, hitting a crucial tiebreaking homer as the Arizona Diamondbacks claimed a 7-4 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday night. This win not only snapped a worrying streak but also pushed the Diamondbacks into sole possession of the National League’s second Wild Card spot.

The Diamondbacks took advantage of the New York Mets’ loss to the Philadelphia Phillies, now leading them by a single game. The Atlanta Braves trail Arizona by three games after their defeat to the Miami Marlins.

“It’s a good feeling, but we’ve got eight more games to go,” acknowledged Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo. “No deal is done. We’ve got to go out and play our best baseball from here on out.”

Meanwhile, the Brewers have already secured the NL Central title. Arizona’s Ketel Marte showcased his prowess by hitting his 33rd homer of the season, marking a career high, while also contributing with a double and a single. The Brewers’ offensive efforts included a four-hit game from William Contreras, who also homered.

The contest turned dramatic when the Brewers, overcoming a four-run deficit, launched three homers in a formidable fifth inning against Arizona ace Zac Gallen. Gallen had been impressive prior, having yielded just two home runs across his last 11 starts.

Gurriel’s pivotal moment came in the sixth inning when he smashed a 1-1 pitch from DL Hall over the fence in left center following his activation from the injured list due to a strained left calf. This hit catalyzed a three-run rally, which was capped when Randal Grichuk drew a bases-loaded walk, bringing Gabriel Moreno home.

“It’s always great to respond immediately after the opponent scores,” Gurriel remarked through a translator. His return proved timely as Arizona regained momentum following Milwaukee’s earlier resurgence.

Brewers manager Pat Murphy reflected on the loss, emphasizing, “You don’t win when you give up seven. That’s not who we’ve been.” Despite the Brewers squeezing in a few hits, they failed to capitalize and score again, leaving the score at 7-4.

A.J. Puk closed out the game for the Diamondbacks, earning his third save in six opportunities. Gallen finished his outing with four runs and seven hits in five innings, striking out five batters. Brewers starter Colin Rea faced similar struggles, allowing three runs over four innings.

TRAINER’S ROOM: Gurriel played his first game since September 1 as the Diamondbacks designated INF Luis Guillorme for assignment to make room for him.

BREWERS’ MOVE: In roster changes, the Brewers designated RHP Enoli Paredes for assignment while promoting RHP Kevin Herget from Triple-A Nashville.

UP NEXT: The teams will continue their four-game series on Saturday, with Diamondbacks RHP Merrill Kelly (4-0, 4.00 ERA) opposing Brewers RHP Aaron Civale (7-8, 4.48).

Arizona sports boasts a vibrant scene, highlighted by teams across all major professional leagues like the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and MLB. The Valley also hosts various significant sporting events annually, from college football to NASCAR.