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Crucial Series: Diamondbacks Face Pirates for Wild Card Spot
28 Jul
Summary
- Diamondbacks hold a one-game lead for the final Wild Card spot.
- Arizona must win two of three games against the Pirates to avoid tiebreaker loss.
- Key pitching matchups include Kelly vs. Keller and Rodriguez vs. Jones.
The Arizona Diamondbacks are navigating a crucial road trip that may determine their playoff trajectory. As of July 28, 2026, the team holds a narrow one-game lead for the final Wild Card position with a 55-51 record.
Their upcoming three-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates (54-52) is highly significant. Arizona lost two of three games to the Pirates earlier in the season, meaning they must win two out of three in this series to avoid losing the tiebreaker. A sweep would be necessary to claim the tiebreaker outright.
The series begins on Monday, July 27, with RHP Merrill Kelly facing RHP Mitch Keller. Tuesday features RHP Brandon Pfaadt against RHP Bubba Chandler. The series concludes on Wednesday, July 29, with LHP Eduardo Rodriguez, Arizona's top starter, pitching against RHP Jared Jones. Notably, the Diamondbacks will not face Pirates' phenom Paul Skenes.
