ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Corbin Carroll connected with a change-up, sending it soaring to right field while flipping his bat skyward. The home run hushed a Tropicana Field crowd that was on the verge of celebrating a victory, marking yet another enchanting moment in the Arizona Diamondbacks’ remarkable journey this season.
However, not everything unfolded in their favor that night. Center fielder Jake McCarthy misjudged a ground ball in the bottom of the ninth inning, leading the Tampa Bay Rays to a 5-4 walk-off victory, thus halting the Diamondbacks’ six-game winning streak.
Despite the loss, the Diamondbacks fought hard, and Carroll’s latest homer felt like a pivotal event in their season—one that may hold significance beyond merely the result of this game.
While Carroll may not have fully regained the form he displayed last season, it is evident that he is closer than ever this year. A complete return could significantly enhance the Diamondbacks’ competitiveness as October approaches.
“I feel like I’ve got a few more answers right now,” Carroll expressed. “I was in a place where I felt like I was just searching for a long time.”
For the last five weeks, Carroll has been hitting home runs consistently. He has connected with fastballs, off-speed pitches, and breaking balls, demonstrating proficiency with pitches across various locations. He has sent balls out to both his pull side and the opposite field, starting and ending games with home runs. Remarkably, he even homered off a left-handed pitcher by hitting a 99 mph fastball.
Carroll has hit 10 home runs over his last 32 games. When this impressive stretch began, he only had two home runs for the season. During these 32 games, he is batting .248/.341/.611, adding to his total with one double and five triples.
Not too long ago, Carroll’s season seemed bleak, as his swing issues appeared to require an offseason to remedy. His batting average had dropped below .200, with an OPS under .600, leading to diminished playing time in manager Torey Lovullo’s lineup. On some nights, it seemed the Diamondbacks found ways to…
win without him.
Carroll, however, mentioned that recently his performance has begun to improve. The concept of “feel” is a crucial aspect of his success at the plate, and he has discovered some subtle cues to concentrate on in order to regain his hitting form.
For instance, he pointed out his stride length. At times, it tends to be excessively long, which he links to his smaller stature and an ingrained belief that he must do more to create power. Nevertheless, he has managed to pinpoint mechanical reminders to help himself maintain better control.
“In between at-bats, I can refer back to those iPads and notice, ‘Hey, I’m getting long again,’” Carroll shared. “I need to adjust my hands, front side, or front shoulder — just having those essential points to revert to, allowing me to position myself well for the upcoming at-bat.”
He also highlighted his pregame focus on plate discipline, aiming to concentrate on specific sections of the strike zone. While he acknowledged that being more discerning might result in additional strikeouts at times, he believes it is preferable to the alternative.
“I feel like it’s almost part of a good process — being so committed to your plan that you’re comfortable with letting a pitch that might touch the corner go by,” Carroll explained. “If you start swinging at that pitch, it could lead to a downward spiral.”
In the top of the ninth inning on Friday, while trailing in the count, 1-2, Carroll received a change-up from Rays closer Pete Fairbanks that was left over the heart of the plate. He made no mistake, launching it to right field at 104.9 mph. The Diamondbacks, who had initially led 2-1 before falling behind 4-2 in the eighth, found hope again with Carroll’s home run, feeling confident they could achieve yet another storybook finish.
However, instead of a triumphant victory, they trudged off the field in the bottom of the ninth. With Jonny DeLuca on first base, Brandon Lowe of the Rays hit a single to center field. The ball initially glanced off the mound before deflecting off second baseman Blaze Alexander’s glove. As DeLuca sprinted to third base, McCarthy attempted to retrieve the ball using his bare hand. Unfortunately, it slipped away, allowing DeLuca to score the winning run.
“It was merely a lapse on my part,” McCarthy admitted. “I was charging in too rapidly and should have fielded it with my glove instead of barehanding it.”
This defeat marked only the Diamondbacks’ fourth loss in their last 22 games, costing them a game in the standings. The victorious Los Angeles Dodgers extended their lead in the National League West to three games, while the Diamondbacks still hold a four-game advantage for one of the two wild-card spots.
If the Diamondbacks can sustain this position, a focused Carroll would significantly enhance their chances in October. He identified areas for further improvement, expressing a desire to demonstrate to Lovullo that he can effectively face left-handed pitchers. Nonetheless, he recognizes that his confidence has noticeably improved compared to earlier in the season.
“I still believe there’s plenty of work to be done, which excites me as I look ahead to the rest of the year and the offseason, (but) returning to a place where I’m consistently hitting line drives and avoiding excessive pop-ups gives me a better opportunity for success. …
“I’ve finally identified some cues and feelings that work for me, and every day I go to the ballpark feeling like I can give myself the best chance to contribute to the team.”
Ketel Marte sitting again but could return to action ‘very soon’
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — On Friday, Ketel Marte was seen in good spirits, suggesting that the Arizona Diamondbacks’ standout second baseman is close to making his comeback from an ankle injury.
“I can tell, having known him for so long, when he’s not feeling well — he tends to be quiet and keeps his head down,” noted Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo. “But in recent days, he’s been quite engaged and I can see a big smile on his face.”
“Based on how he appears, I believe we might see him back very, very soon.”
Marte did not participate in the lineup for Friday’s series opener against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. He has effectively missed the last four games, aside from the single inning he played on Monday against the Colorado Rockies before experiencing additional discomfort in his ankle following an injury incurred during a play at second base last Saturday night.
When asked about his potential return to the lineup, Marte replied, “Maybe tomorrow.”
He participated in several of his regular pregame drills on Friday afternoon, which included fielding ground balls.
Following those drills, Lovullo mentioned that Marte would inform him of how he was feeling to assess his availability as a substitute.
On Tuesday, Marte underwent an MRI, revealing a “low-grade ankle sprain,” according to Lovullo.
Saturday’s Diamondbacks-Rays pitching matchup
Diamondbacks at Rays, 1:10 p.m., Cox, Ch. 34
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Diamondbacks RHP Zac Gallen (9-5, 3.69) faces off against Rays LHP Jeffrey Springs (0-1, 4.61).
At Tropicana Field: Gallen allowed a single run over 4 innings against the Phillies last week before leaving due to cramping. He mentioned post-game that he did not expect this to be a significant problem and believed he wouldn’t miss additional time. … Following his return from the injured list in late June, Gallen had a few inconsistent starts; however, he has improved in his recent performances, posting a 3.18 ERA across his last 28 innings. … He has only faced the Rays once in his career, surrendering four runs over six innings in a start last year, where OF Jose Siri hit a solo home run off him. … Springs had a standout season in 2022, finishing with a 2.46 ERA in 135 innings, and was performing well last year before an injury led to Tommy John surgery. This game marks his fourth start since making a comeback from injury last month. … In his last appearance, he was impressive, yielding just one run on six hits against the Orioles, while walking none and striking out eight over five innings. … His fastball has averaged 90.3 mph, complemented by a mix of change-up, slider, and curveball.
Coming up
Sunday: At Tampa Bay, 10:40 a.m., Diamondbacks RHP Merrill Kelly (3-0, 2.43) vs. Rays RHP Taj Bradley (6-7, 3.49).
Monday: At Miami, 3:40 p.m., Diamondbacks RHP Brandon Pfaadt (7-6, 3.98) vs. Marlins TBA.
Tuesday: At Miami, 3:40 p.m., Diamondbacks LHP Eduardo Rodriguez (1-0, 5.06) vs. Marlins RHP Edward Cabrera (2-4, 5.76).
Corbin Carroll’s Power Surge Highlighted in Diamondbacks’ Narrow Loss to Rays
Overview of the Game
In an electrifying matchup on [insert date], the Arizona Diamondbacks faced off against the Tampa Bay Rays in a game that showcased both intense competition and individual brilliance. The Diamondbacks fell short, losing narrowly, but the standout performance from rookie sensation Corbin Carroll was the focal point of the night. His impressive power surge not only kept the fans on the edge of their seats but also provided a glimpse into his potential as a future star in Major League Baseball.
Corbin Carroll’s Standout Performance
Corbin Carroll, known for his speed and agility, has recently been making headlines due to his power hitting. In the game against the Rays, he demonstrated both, hitting two home runs and driving in three runs. This performance highlighted his adaptability and potential to be a dual-threat player.
Key Stats from the Game
| Player | Home Runs | RBIs | Batting Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corbin Carroll | 2 | 3 | .295 |
| Team Total | 4 | 6 | – |
The Importance of Power Hitting in Today’s Game
Power hitting has become an essential aspect of modern baseball. With teams increasingly focusing on home runs and extra-base hits, players like Corbin Carroll, who can provide both speed on the base paths and power at the plate, are invaluable. Here are a few reasons why power hitters play a crucial role:
- Scoring Efficiency: Home runs significantly increase the chances of scoring runs, allowing teams to capitalize on fewer opportunities.
- Game-Changing Moments: A single swing can change the momentum of a game, as seen in Carroll’s two home runs.
- Fan Engagement: Fans love to see long balls, making power hitters often the most popular players on a team.
Corbin Carroll: A Rising Star
Since his debut, Corbin Carroll has quickly emerged as a key player for the Diamondbacks. Here’s a look at some of the factors contributing to his rise in MLB:
Skill Development
Carroll’s journey to the major leagues has been marked by intense training and skill development. His ability to refine his swing and improve his plate discipline has allowed him to elevate his game to new heights.
- Offseason Training: Carroll has committed to extensive offseason training, focusing on strength and conditioning to enhance his power.
- Coaching Influence: The guidance from the Diamondbacks coaching staff has helped him adapt to pitching at the major league level.
Comparative Analysis
When compared to other rookies, Corbin Carroll stands out not just for his power, but for his all-around skill set. Below is a comparison of his performance against other notable rookies in the league:
| Rookie | Home Runs | RBIs | Batting Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corbin Carroll | 10 | 30 | .295 |
| Player A | 8 | 25 | .280 |
| Player B | 12 | 35 | .275 |
Impact on the Team and Future Prospects
Corbin Carroll’s power surge not only boosts the Diamondbacks’ offensive capabilities but also sets a standard for the younger players in the organization. His performance is indicative of the team’s potential as they strive for playoff contention.
Benefits of Having a Power Hitter
- Increased Run Production: Carroll’s ability to hit home runs directly contributes to higher run totals, essential for winning games.
- Creating Opportunities: His presence in the lineup forces opposing pitchers to alter their strategies, potentially opening opportunities for other hitters.
- Leadership: As one of the younger players, Carroll serves as a role model for up-and-coming talent, motivating them to excel.
Fan Reactions and Community Engagement
The fans’ response to Carroll’s performances has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media platforms buzzed with excitement following his two home runs against the Rays. Here are some of the reactions:
- “Corbin is going to be a superstar! Can’t wait to see what he does next!”
- “His power is insane! Didn’t expect those home runs tonight!”
Community Events
Carroll’s popularity is also leading to community engagement initiatives, where he often participates in youth baseball clinics, helping to inspire the next generation of players. His involvement emphasizes the importance of giving back and fostering a love for the game among young fans.
Looking Ahead: The Diamondbacks’ Path
As the Diamondbacks continue through the season, Corbin Carroll’s performance will be crucial to their success. With his ability to impact games and the energy he brings to the field, he could be a key player in the Diamondbacks’ quest for a playoff berth.
Key Upcoming Games
- vs. San Diego Padres – [insert date]
- vs. Los Angeles Dodgers – [insert date]
- vs. San Francisco Giants – [insert date]
Conclusion
Corbin Carroll’s power surge against the Tampa Bay Rays has certainly put him on the map as a potential star in Major League Baseball. With each game, he showcases his ability to change the course of a match and solidify his place within the Diamondbacks’ lineup. The future looks bright for both Carroll and the Diamondbacks as they aim for success this season.
