Morel’s 10th-Inning Blast Powers Rays Past Diamondbacks 7-4

PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks faced a tough defeat against the Tampa Bay Rays, losing 7-4 in a dramatic shift during Thursday night’s game. Christopher Morel’s two-run homer in the 10th inning turned the tide for the Rays, sealing the victory after Arizona had led until the ninth.

The Diamondbacks appeared on track to secure a win with a 4-3 lead until Yandy Diaz managed to hit a tying single off Ryne Nelson in the final frame. Edwin Uceta, who recorded the win, helped the Rays regain momentum by inducing an inning-ending double play shortly after.

Junior Caminero’s double in the 10th pulled Tampa Bay ahead, and Morel followed with his third homer of the season to extend the lead to three runs. Pete Fairbanks secured the save despite allowing a walk.

Arizona got on the scoreboard first with a strong offensive showing. Josh Naylor’s single and a double from Corbin Thomas contributed to an early lead. Tim Tawa later added a solo homer, putting the Diamondbacks ahead at 4-1 early in the game.

Corbin Burnes had a commendable performance, striking out eight batters while allowing three runs—one of which was unearned—across five and one-third innings. However, his exit in the sixth came after a fumbled comebacker, leading to a pitching change that allowed Tampa Bay to close the gap.

A key moment was Uceta’s catch of Eugenio Suárez’s line drive, which initiated a crucial double play in the ninth that prevented further damage against the Diamondbacks.

In an unusual turn, Arizona’s defense, typically reliable, recorded three errors in the outing. This inconsistency may have played a role in their downfall in a game that was otherwise competitive.

Looking ahead, the Rays will face off against the San Diego Padres, with RHP Shane Baz starting in the opener of a three-game series on Friday. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks will send RHP Zac Gallen to the mound against the Atlanta Braves for their series opener, also scheduled for Friday.

The city of Phoenix continues to be a central hub for professional sports, featuring teams from the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and MLB, along with annual major sporting events, including college football’s Fiesta Bowl and various NASCAR events.