D-backs Rally with Record-Breaking 14-Run Inning on Opening Day

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ICARO Media Group
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29/03/2024 18h16

In a stunning display of situational hitting, the Arizona Diamondbacks unleashed an offensive onslaught during their Opening Day clash against the Colorado Rockies. With a remarkable 14-run inning, the D-backs secured a resounding victory and left fans at Chase Field in awe.

Unlike the previous game's homer-driven performance, the D-backs relied on singles and doubles to rally their way to victory. Out of the impressive 13 hits they accumulated, an astonishing 10 were singles and three were doubles. The only home run of the game came from Lourdes Gurriel Jr., a powerful two-run blast in the first inning.

This remarkable feat of scoring 14 runs in a single inning without any home runs has only been achieved once before in modern baseball history. The 1948 Athletics, a team from Philadelphia, accomplished the same feat 50 years ago, long before the D-backs ever played in the Major Leagues.

Manager Torey Lovullo credited the team's success to their situational hitting, disciplined plate approach, and an all-field mentality. Lovullo expressed his astonishment, stating, "When you score that many runs in a baseball game with only one home run, you're expecting everyone to hit homers. We were a good hitting team today."

Outfielder Alek Thomas reflected on the historic inning, expressing his admiration for his teammates' excellent at-bats and disciplined swings. The D-backs showcased their resilience, delivering key hits even after falling into 0-2 counts. They finished the game with a remarkable 12-for-15 with runners in scoring position.

Though Star Corbin Carroll was unable to secure a hit during the record-breaking inning, he played a vital role by drawing two crucial walks to keep the rally alive. Five players, including Gurriel, contributed multiple hits, with Gurriel's five RBIs setting a new Diamondbacks record for Opening Day.

In a memorable MLB debut, Blaze Alexander gained his first big-league hit and drove in the 14th run for the D-backs. Unfortunately, Alexander momentarily mistook the count and began walking to first base on ball three, leading to a humorous moment for his teammates. Nonetheless, he made the most of his second chance and savored the excitement of his first big-league hit.

The fans at Chase Field rewarded the team's exceptional performance with a prolonged standing ovation as the inning came to a close. The victory marked an excellent start to the season for the D-backs.

Amidst the offensive fireworks, starting pitcher Zac Gallen delivered a commendable performance, allowing only one earned run over five innings. Despite having to endure an extended inning, Gallen maintained his focus and drew enough weak contact to limit the Rockies' scoring opportunities. Gallen humorously commented on the team's offensive explosion, jokingly stating, "Hey, I want to play too."

The D-backs' defensive efforts were equally impressive, with standout plays from Eduardo Suarez, Geraldo Perdomo, Christian Walker, and Alek Thomas keeping the Rockies at bay. Manager Torey Lovullo praised the team's defensive prowess, highlighting their ability to remain composed even after establishing a commanding lead.

Looking ahead, the D-backs will continue their series against the Rockies, with Merrill Kelly set to take the mound next. The game will also include a pregame ceremony to celebrate the D-backs' 2023 NL pennant victory.

While the D-backs' record-breaking 14-run inning on Opening Day was undoubtedly a historic moment, the team remains focused on the long season ahead. As Lovullo emphasized, it is just the beginning of a 162-game journey filled with challenges and victories.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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