MARCH 29-31: COLORADO (1-2) @ ARIZONA (2-1)
March 29: Arizona 3, Colorado 0
March 30: Arizona 3, Colorado 2
March 31: Colorado 4, Arizona 2
This year, I am trying to keep it a bit simpler. I will just post updates of each series instead of individual games. Should help this to move along quicker and is less work.
The Dbacks opened the 2018 season against fellow National League Wild Card opponent Colorado with the Dbacks taking two of three. They were poised for the sweep, but Brad Boxberger blew a ninth inning save in the series finale, allowing three runs in the top of the ninth to allow the Rockies to salvage the finale.
Zach Grienke was masterful in the opener, pitching eight shutout innings, allowing just two hits while striking out 10 and not issuing any walks. A.J. Pollock went 2 for 4 with a double and home run, while driving in two.
In game two, Charlie Blackmon singled home DJ LaMahieu with the go ahead run in the top of the eighth off of reliever Andrew Chafin. But a Jake Lamb RBI single tied it and a Nolan Arenado throwing error allowed Paul Goldschmidt to score the go ahead run as Arizona went up 3-2. Archie Bradley came on for the save in the ninth. Manager Torey Lovullo said afterwards that Bradley would move into the closer role with Brad Boxberger moving back into middle relief.
Arizona (2-1) will host the Los Angeles Dodgers (4-0) for a three game series at Chase Field beginning on Monday. Clayton Kershaw will miss his scheduled start with shoulder stiffness.
The DBacks and Rockies opened up the 2018 season at Chase Field.