The Arizona Diamondbacks and Milwaukee Brewers prepare for game three of their four-game weekend series, bringing an exciting atmosphere to the ballpark. The Diamondbacks are currently sitting in the third and final spot in the National League wildcard standings. They are determined to fend off the Atlanta Braves while aiming to reclaim the second spot from the New York Mets. Meanwhile, the Brewers are solidifying their position as they clinched the NL Central Division Title and appear set for the playoffs, although they trail the Dodgers and Phillies by three games. The pitching duel on Saturday night features Diamondbacks right-hander Merrill Kelly (4-0, 4.00) against Brewers righty Aaron Civale (7-8, 4.48). Fans can anticipate the first pitch at 7:10 PM EST.
Diamondbacks Face Pressure to Perform
Merrill Kelly Takes the Mound
The Arizona Diamondbacks are deeply engaged in the NL wildcard race with just over a week remaining in the regular season. They find themselves in a competitive landscape, especially with the New York Mets gaining momentum. Currently, the Diamondbacks hold a two-game cushion over the Braves for the final playoff berth. After a strong start in the series, where they secured a 5-1 victory over the Brewers, the team looks to maintain that momentum. Pitcher Brandon Pfaadt delivered a stellar performance, completing seven shutout innings with 12 strikeouts.
As they continue their playoff push, the Diamondbacks will rely on Merrill Kelly for Saturday’s game. With a record of 4-0 and an ERA of 4.00 this season, Kelly’s experience will be vital. Despite an injury-plagued season limiting him to 11 starts, he has managed five quality outings. In total, he has struck out 49 batters over 63 innings and only issued 18 walks, although he has allowed 11 home runs this season. In his previous start against the Rockies, Kelly pitched six innings, allowing two hits and one run while striking out five.
Key Injuries: Starting pitcher Ryne Nelson, relievers Paul Sewald, Bryce Jarvis, and Drey Jameson are currently sidelined.
Brewers Solidify Playoff Strategy
The Milwaukee Brewers have once again secured their place in the postseason, claiming their second consecutive NL Central Division title and their fourth in the last seven years. With 88 wins heading into the series, they are positioned as the likely third seed in the NL Playoffs, trailing the Dodgers and Phillies by three games. However, they faced a setback in the series opener, losing to the Diamondbacks 5-1.
As they prepare for the playoffs, the Brewers are focused on fine-tuning their rotation. On Saturday, they will send Aaron Civale to the mound. Acquired from Tampa Bay near the trade deadline, Civale has been a valuable addition to the team, posting a 7-8 record with an ERA of 4.48 and a WHIP of 1.33. In 29 starts, he has allowed 152 hits over 150.2 innings, alongside 142 strikeouts and 48 walks. Civale’s last outing saw him limit the Rockies to just one run while striking out six over five innings.
Key Injuries: Third baseman Oliver Dunn is currently out.
Betting Insights for Diamondbacks vs. Brewers
The stakes are particularly high for the Diamondbacks as they fight for a playoff spot. In contrast, the Brewers seem to have their playoff positioning secured, which may lead them to rest some key players. Their bullpen, in particular, will benefit from additional rest as they gear up for the postseason, especially with several pitchers approaching uncharted innings territory.
Given the Diamondbacks’ powerful lineup, which ranks fifth in MLB for home runs per game, Civale may face challenges on the mound. With 27 home runs allowed this season, he will need to execute carefully against a lineup that can capitalize on mistakes. This matchup could be pivotal for both teams as they navigate their respective paths toward the playoffs.
