- Suárez ties franchise record with three homers in first two games
- Kelly allows one run over 5.1 innings for first win
- D-backs overcome three fielding errors with explosive offense
The Arizona Diamondbacks delivered an offensive masterclass Friday night, powered by Eugenio Suárez's pair of two-run homers in their 8-1 victory against the Chicago Cubs. The veteran third baseman now boasts three home runs in 2024's opening series, matching Luis Gonzalez's 2001 franchise record. His second-inning blast to left field traveled 412 feet at 107 mph exit velocity, while his fourth-inning rocket nearly replicated the trajectory.
Merrill Kelly demonstrated why Arizona extended his contract through 2025, holding the Cubs to three hits across 5.1 innings. The right-hander's strategic mix of cutters and changeups kept Chicago batters guessing, inducing nine swing-and-misses. Reliever Shelby Miller made a triumphant return to Chase Field, striking out four in two scoreless innings.
Despite committing three errors – including two throwing miscues by Perdomo – the D-backs maintained control through relentless hitting. Arizona's .571 team slugging percentage through two games leads the National League, suggesting improved offensive depth from last season's playoff roster. This early success mirrors Phoenix's $230 million stadium renovation project aimed at creating hitter-friendly dimensions.
Industry analysts note Suárez's resurgence could reshape the NL West race. After batting .307 with 20 HRs post-All-Star break in 2024, his power-hitting addresses Arizona's previous reliance on small-ball tactics. The D-backs' decision to acquire him from Seattle now appears prescient, providing veteran leadership alongside rising stars like Corbin Carroll.
Saturday's pitching matchup features Brandon Pfaadt against Cubs newcomer Shota Imanaga, testing Arizona's scouting preparedness. With Chase Field attendance up 18% from 2023's opening series, the organization's focus on cultivating homegrown talent while making strategic veteran acquisitions appears to be resonating with fans.