The Arizona Diamondbacks are strategizing to impede Bobby Witt Jr. and the surging Kansas City Royals as they gear up for the middle game of their current road series. Recently, Arizona has shown significant improvement, winning 12 of their last 19 games, propelling them from fourth place in the National League West into contention for a wild-card spot.
Key contributors for the Diamondbacks include Ketel Marte, Christian Walker, Eugenio Suarez, and Gabriel Moreno, who have collectively amassed 14 home runs and 52 RBIs while maintaining an impressive .318 batting average over the past 19 games since June 29. Marte, particularly, has been instrumental, reaching base safely in 20 out of 22 games and leading the team with 13 home runs against left-handed pitchers.
Despite their recent successes, Arizona faced a setback in their previous outing against Kansas City, losing 10-4 despite Marte’s early contribution. The Diamondbacks’ starting pitching has generally been solid, exemplified by a collective 2.89 ERA over their previous 11 games, though Yilber Diaz struggled in his latest start, giving up seven runs in just over three innings.
Looking ahead, the Diamondbacks anticipate a boost with Jordan Montgomery returning to the mound after a four-week absence due to knee inflammation. Montgomery, slated to start against the Royals, showed promising form in a simulated game, maintaining a velocity of 92-93 mph. Despite his past struggles against Kansas City, Montgomery’s return is anticipated to fortify the rotation.
On the Royals’ side, Alec Marsh (7-6, 4.52 ERA) will take the mound, aiming to build on his recent success, including a strong outing against St. Louis where he struck out eight over six innings. Marsh, who has never faced the Diamondbacks, poses a fresh challenge for Arizona’s hitters.
Meanwhile, the Royals continue to ride the momentum provided by Bobby Witt Jr., who has been on a tear since the All-Star break, amassing an impressive 12 hits in just 15 at-bats. Witt’s exceptional performance earned him the American League Player of the Week accolade, showcasing his pivotal role in Kansas City’s recent four-game winning streak. Witt’s consistency and offensive prowess have been crucial for the Royals as they aim to maintain their winning momentum.
Additionally, the Royals are optimistic about the imminent return of MJ Melendez, who has been sidelined with a left ankle sprain. Expected to be activated soon, Melendez’s return will further bolster Kansas City’s lineup, providing additional depth and defensive stability in the outfield.
As both teams prepare for their upcoming clash, the Diamondbacks’ focus on containing Bobby Witt Jr. underscores their strategic approach to counteract Kansas City’s potent offensive threat, setting the stage for an intriguing matchup in their ongoing series.
