Eduardo Rodriguez pushed through to the ninth inning for the first time in his 11-year career, leading the D-backs to a 5-1 win over the Mets on Mother’s Day. After manager Torey Lovullo offered him the chance to exit after eight innings, Rodriguez insisted on continuing, showcasing his competitiveness. He delivered 8 1/3 strong innings, with a mere four hits allowed, contributing to Arizona's first back-to-back victories since mid-April. This performance underscored Rodriguez's recent success, highlighting his 2.25 ERA over the season and the D-backs' winning streak during his last six starts.

By the Numbers
  • Rodriguez pitched 8 1/3 innings, allowing just one run.
  • His ERA for the season stands at 2.25 after eight starts.
  • The D-backs' current streak includes six consecutive starts of at least six innings by their starters.
Yes, But

While Rodriguez's performance has been stellar, it's essential to consider if this momentum can be sustained through the season, especially in terms of player health and performance consistency.

State of Play
  • The D-backs are showing improved form with back-to-back wins.
  • Rodriguez’s performance is a key factor, highlighting the team’s emerging pitching strength.
What's Next

Rodriguez's recent success could lead to increased expectations in upcoming games, raising questions about how long he can maintain this level of performance and whether it will influence the team's chances in the standings.

Bottom Line

Rodriguez’s determination to pitch into the ninth inning not only showcased his competitive spirit but also marked a significant moment in his career, contributing to the D-backs' current resurgence and setting a positive tone for the rest of the season.