When Zac Gallen is locked in, he’s the kind of pitcher who can dominate a rotation and even outshine a two-time Cy Young Award winner. Returning to Arizona for his first home start, Gallen delivered a masterful six scoreless innings, leading the D-backs to a narrow 1-0 victory over Tarik Skubal and the Tigers in Wednesday's series finale.
This sweep marks the fourth time the D-backs have started their home season with a clean slate, a timely boost that brings them back to .500 after a rocky 0-3 start.
Gallen was in fine form, relying on his four-seamer, knuckle-curve, and slider to stifle the opposition. He scattered four hits, issued no walks, and struck out two, with 15 first-pitch strikes highlighting his command. Gallen’s efficient 88-pitch outing was a testament to his strategy of pitching to contact, a plan executed to perfection.
“As the game went on, Gabriel Moreno and I really found our rhythm,” Gallen shared. “I felt like I had solid command across the board. The goal was to stay in the strike zone and force them into decisions.”
The D-backs’ defensive prowess, emphasized during Spring Training, is already making a significant impact. They’re tied with the Dodgers for the MLB lead in defensive runs saved (8) through six games, a testament to their commitment in the field.
Key defensive plays were crucial in maintaining the lead. In the sixth, Jose Fernandez, fresh off his two-homer debut, snagged a line drive and quickly doubled off a runner at third.
In the eighth, second baseman Ildemaro Vargas made a highlight-reel backhand stop and jump throw for an out. And in the ninth, Nolan Arenado showcased his Gold Glove skills with a tough in-between hop that he turned into a double play.
Manager Torey Lovullo praised the team’s strengths, saying, “Pitching and defense are our cornerstones. We’re going to have days like this, facing pitchers like Skubal who put up zeros.”
The lone run came courtesy of Corbin Carroll, who launched an 0-2 fastball into the left-field bleachers in the first inning. Carroll’s power surge makes him just the sixth lefty to homer off Skubal, continuing his hot start to the season.
With two homers, a 1.162 OPS, and a team-leading eight RBIs through six games, Carroll is dispelling any worries about his spring hamate injury. “It feels good,” Carroll said.
“I’m happy with my swings lately. I’ve got some good cues clicking, and I’m working hard to keep it going.”