In a thrilling turn of events on October 11, 2023, the Arizona Diamondbacks delivered an electrifying performance that left the baseball world in awe. They unleashed a home run onslaught in the third inning, resulting in a record-setting four solo homers. This explosive display of power secured a 4-2 victory in Game 3 of the NL Division Series, propelling the Diamondbacks to the NL Championship Series for the first time since 2007. The Dodgers, who entered the postseason with 100 wins, were swept aside, leaving the D-backs on the cusp of greatness.
The Unlikely Heroes:
Geraldo Perdomo kickstarted the fireworks with an unexpected leadoff homer, marking his first long ball since August 13. Ketel Marte followed with a 428-foot drive to right, and Christian Walker extended the lead with a line-drive shot into the left-field seats. However, the most remarkable moment came when Gabriel Moreno unleashed a 420-foot moonshot into left-center, only one pitch after a foul call. These four solo homers in a single inning left fans, players, and even Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo in disbelief.
A Remarkable Turn of Events:
The Arizona Diamondbacks, seeded sixth in the NL playoff bracket with an 84-78 regular-season record, have been unstoppable in the postseason. They breezed through a best-of-three series against the Brewers and then dominated the mighty Dodgers in a best-of-five matchup. Their incredible journey to the NL Championship Series has been a testament to their unwavering determination and extraordinary power.
Lance Lynn’s Struggles:
Lance Lynn, a veteran right-handed pitcher, appeared to be cruising through the first two innings with no signs of what was about to transpire. However, the Diamondbacks shattered his composure in a jaw-dropping fashion. Perdomo, Marte, and Walker all capitalized on Lynn’s pitches, while Moreno’s incredible foul-to-fair home run left Lynn shell-shocked. It was a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
Brandon Pfaadt’s Dominance:
On the other side of the diamond, Arizona rookie right-hander Brandon Pfaadt was the unsung hero. He delivered 4 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing just two hits and striking out two. Pfaadt’s remarkable performance complemented the D-backs’ offensive prowess, contributing to their decisive victory.
Dodgers’ Frustration:
The Los Angeles Dodgers, boasting a stacked lineup featuring former MVPs Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, had no answers for the Diamondbacks in this series. Both Betts and Freeman struggled at the plate, and the Dodgers were outplayed in every facet of the game. The disappointment in the Dodgers’ clubhouse was palpable, with manager Dave Roberts acknowledging their shortcomings.
The Arizona Diamondbacks’ extraordinary display of power in Game 3 of the NL Division Series has etched their name in baseball history. This thrilling victory not only secured their spot in the NL Championship Series but also sent a powerful message to the baseball world – they are a force to be reckoned with. As they await their next opponents, the Phillies or Braves, the Diamondbacks bask in the glory of their remarkable journey, one that defied the odds and captivated the hearts of fans everywhere.