Game Summary
The Diamondbacks secured an 8-4 win against the White Sox in their final Cactus League matchup. Despite being out-hit 10-9 over the course of the game, timely small-ball plays and key mistakes by the opposition paved the way for a strong finish in a low-attendance setting in Glendale.
Pitching Performances
A late change in the lineup saw Ryne Nelson shift from a planned start to a relief appearance in the third inning. Nelson’s outing got off to a shaky start, yielding an immediate home run and hits to four of his first six batters. Over 0.2 innings he surrendered two runs before settling down in the fourth, striking out two while limiting further damage. In total, he worked 2.2 innings with 52 pitches, just surpassing his 50-pitch threshold, a crucial consideration for future starts. Five other pitchers contributed effectively by limiting the damage to two runs on five hits, with standout performances from a young reliever who worked 1.1 innings and another who impressed with three strikeouts over two innings.
Offensive Highlights
The lineup featured contributions from regular starters and emerging prospects. Alek Thomas provided an early boost with two walks and two runs. A newly promoted major leaguer showed poise at the plate with a 1-for-2 performance that included two runs and two walks. Table-setting efforts were evident from Pavin Smith, Caleb Roberts, and Tommy Troy, who together drove in four runs while maintaining a steady presence. Smith’s single performance exhibited a blend of productivity and patience, and Jack Hurley added depth with a 2-for-4 effort, capped by a crucial double. Corbin Carroll finished the Cactus League schedule with solid play, including scoring a key run.
Key Moments and Final Impact
A pivotal inning unfolded in the third frame when the Diamondbacks scored four consecutive runs to take the lead. The sequence began when Thomas reached base after being hit by a pitch, followed by Hampson’s single. A throwing error by the White Sox advanced the runners, setting off a chain reaction on the bases. Discrete yet incisive hits kept the inning moving, culminating with a deep sacrifice fly that drove in the fourth run before the defensive unit recorded a diving catch on a line drive to complete the rally. The game’s climactic moment came in the top of the ninth when A.J. Vukovich launched a two-run home run. The powerful hit, measured at 386 feet with an exit velocity over 102 mph, punctuated the Diamondbacks’ offensive efforts and sealed the victory.