The Arizona Diamondbacks face the Tampa Bay Rays tonight in the deciding game of their series. The Diamondbacks lost the previous matchup late Wednesday night, a 7-6 result in extra innings. That outcome set up a rubber match at Chase Field.
Tonight's game features a notable pitching duel. The Tampa Bay Rays send Drew Rasmussen to the mound. Rasmussen has recorded stellar numbers early this season. His performance suggests he is a dominant arm for the Rays.
Arizona counters with Corbin Burnes. Burnes enters the game with a 0-1 record and a 4.64 ERA. His statistical profile shows a disconnect between his ERA and fielding independent pitching metric, which sits higher. However, Burnes has shown improvement in his last two starts. He has allowed fewer home runs recently.
Drew Rasmussen boasts a 1-1 record with a 0.87 ERA. He has proven highly effective. Rasmussen previously pitched well against tough opponents. He held teams like the Yankees and Rangers in check. His strong start sets a high bar for the Diamondbacks offense.
While pitching holds focus, Arizona's offense features a standout. Corbin Carroll continues his strong play. He currently owns a .327 batting average with nine home runs. Carroll's 1.097 OPS ranks high among league players. He is tied for the MLB lead in home runs. Carroll is emerging as a top hitter. You can find analyses on Arizona Diamondbacks emerging star.
The team also made recent roster adjustments. They recalled outfielder Jorge Barrosa from Triple-A Reno. They optioned outfielder Jake McCarthy to Reno after Sunday's game. McCarthy struggled severely at the plate. His .073 average through 21 games represents a franchise low point for position players with significant plate appearances.
Arizona's bullpen also saw updates. News about A.J. Puk remains concerning. He underwent an elbow MRI. Pitcher Kevin Ginkel begins a rehab assignment Thursday in Reno. Randall Graveman is scheduled to throw Saturday in an extended game situation. Team news also suggests Ketel Marte starts base-running activities this week. An update on Puk's condition noted he is getting 2nd and 3rd opinions on his elbow MRI.
The Diamondbacks look to secure a series win tonight. Avoiding consecutive series losses rests on their performance. The game starts at 6:40 p.m. MST from Chase Field. Fans can follow team news and analysis, including the previous night's extra-inning loss.
