Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen found himself in an unusual position during Thursday night's game against the Colorado Rockies. Despite being accustomed to run support, Gallen was almost eager to return to the field after witnessing his team's explosive performance.
The Diamondbacks dominated the Rockies with a franchise-record 14-run third inning, ultimately securing a resounding 16-1 victory. This remarkable feat marked the most runs scored in an inning on opening day by any team since 1900.
Lourdes Gurriel Jr. emerged as a standout player, contributing five RBIs and three hits, including a two-run homer. The Diamondbacks' offensive onslaught began with a 2-1 lead going into the bottom of the third, which quickly escalated as they sent 18 batters to the plate, accumulating 13 hits, two walks, and a sacrifice fly.
Notably, Arizona achieved this remarkable feat without hitting a single home run during the inning. The team's all-around hitting prowess was evident as multiple players, including Ketel Marte, Christian Walker, and Gabriel Moreno, delivered key hits. Manager Torey Lovullo commended the team's situational hitting and disciplined approach at the plate.
The historic inning shattered franchise records for most hits, runs, and batters in a single inning, leaving the Rockies struggling to contain the offensive onslaught. The game-changing performance lasted 34 minutes, with the Diamondbacks establishing a commanding 16-1 lead after just three innings.
On the defensive end, Gallen showcased his pitching prowess, limiting the Rockies to one run on three hits over five innings. Stellar defensive plays by Eugenio Suarez and Alek Thomas further bolstered the Diamondbacks' dominant display.
Rockies' pitcher Kyle Freeland endured a challenging outing, surrendering 10 earned runs on 10 hits before being pulled from the game. Freeland acknowledged his struggles with execution, emphasizing the Diamondbacks' ability to capitalize on every mistake.
Arizona's offensive showcase was spearheaded by Gurriel's early homer, setting the tone for the team's record-breaking performance. The Diamondbacks' relentless hitting barrage highlighted their offensive depth and resilience.
Looking ahead, the Diamondbacks will send RHP Merrill Kelly to the mound in their upcoming game against the Rockies, who will counter with RHP Cal Quantrill.
TRAINER'S ROOM
Diamondbacks outfielder Randal Grichuk has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to an ankle injury. Grichuk is expected to begin a rehab assignment in Triple-A Reno before potentially rejoining the big league roster.
UP NEXT
The Diamondbacks are set to face the Rockies with RHP Merrill Kelly on the mound, while the Rockies will rely on RHP Cal Quantrill for their next matchup.
AP MLB: https://apnews.com/MLB
