Jeff PassanESPN5 Minute Read
PHILADELPHIA — The Arizona Diamondbacks have defied expectations in this year’s postseason, embodying the words of their manager, Torey Lovullo, who often reminds them that “anything can happen.” Their latest triumph came on Tuesday night, as they secured a thrilling 4-2 victory over the heavily favored Philadelphia Phillies in Game 7 of the National League Championship Series. Behind the outstanding performance of series MVP Ketel Marte, the Diamondbacks overcame the hostile Citizens Bank Park environment, where visiting teams had previously been unable to secure a win, and defeated the Phillies for the second consecutive night.
The Diamondbacks’ remarkable journey continues as they make their first appearance in the World Series since 2001. In a dramatic series against the New York Yankees, the Diamondbacks emerged victorious with Luis Gonzalez’s unforgettable walk-off single in Game 7. This year, the 84-win Diamondbacks, who trailed the Los Angeles Dodgers by 16 games in the regular season, will face off against the Texas Rangers, marking the first time both teams have reached the World Series as wild cards.
The odds were stacked against both the Diamondbacks and the Rangers from the beginning, with Arizona’s chances of reaching the World Series set at 125-1 and Texas at 50-1. However, both teams managed to overcome the odds and secure their spot in the championship series. As they prepare for Game 1 at Texas’ Globe Life Field on Friday, the Rangers have been installed as the favorites by Caesars Sportsbook.
Game 7 of the NLCS proved to be a nerve-wracking affair for the Diamondbacks. Rookie outfielder Corbin Carroll delivered an exceptional performance, going 3-for-4, driving in two runs, scoring two more, and stealing two bases. The Diamondbacks’ bullpen, often criticized throughout the season, stepped up to the challenge and held the Phillies scoreless for five innings, securing the crucial victory. Closer Paul Sewald, acquired by the Diamondbacks at the trade deadline, provided the final three outs to seal the win.
“Corbin Carroll exceeded our expectations in person, displaying even greater talent than what we had seen on TV,” said Sewald, reflecting on Carroll’s pivotal contributions to the team’s success.
The Diamondbacks’ journey to the World Series has been full of surprises and improbable achievements. During the regular season, they had a negative run differential and finished with only 84 wins, one of the lowest totals for a World Series participant. Despite their struggles, the Diamondbacks proved themselves in the playoffs, sweeping both the Milwaukee Brewers and the Los Angeles Dodgers in the previous rounds.
The NLCS initially seemed to favor the Phillies, who won the first two games of the series. However, the Diamondbacks rallied back, winning key games to level the series and ultimately secure victory in Game 7. They capitalized on their ability to create chaos on the basepaths, stealing bases to disrupt the Phillies’ rhythm.
The Diamondbacks’ offensive prowess was on full display in Game 7, as they wasted no time in taking the lead. Early singles from Corbin Carroll and Gabriel Moreno set the stage for a Christian Walker fielder’s choice, giving Arizona an early advantage. The Phillies fought back, with Alec Bohm hitting a home run to tie the game and subsequently taking the lead in the fourth inning. However, the tide turned in the fifth inning, as Emmanuel Rivera’s single kickstarted a crucial rally for the Diamondbacks. Carroll, who had struggled against left-handed pitchers earlier in the series, delivered a clutch hit, scoring Rivera. Jeff Hoffman replaced Ranger Suarez, but was unable to contain the Diamondbacks’ momentum, allowing Carroll to steal second and score on a Rivera single.
The Diamondbacks extended their lead to 4-2 in the seventh inning, courtesy of a sacrifice fly from Carroll. The Phillies had opportunities to mount a comeback, but the Diamondbacks’ bullpen stood tall, with Kevin Ginkel delivering a spectacular eighth inning, striking out key hitters to preserve the lead. Closer Paul Sewald seamlessly sealed the victory in the ninth inning, setting off an exuberant celebration for the Diamondbacks.
“We’ve been playing meaningful games for a long time,” said manager Torey Lovullo before the game. Starting Friday, their journey reaches its climax as they enter the World Series.
