Kevin Newman’s Heroics Propel Diamondbacks to Dramatic Walk-Off Victory Over Reds!
In a rollercoaster of a game, the Arizona Diamondbacks secured a thrilling 6-5 walk-off win against the Cincinnati Reds on Monday, turning frustration into jubilation with a dramatic final inning.
The Diamondbacks struggled early on, going 1-for-11 with runners in scoring position and squandering a late lead in the eighth inning. Tensions ran high as designated hitter Joc Pederson and manager Torey Lovullo were ejected from the game following a contentious call.
Joc Pederson and Torey Lovullo have both been ejected from the game after arguing this strike three call pic.twitter.com/YXk0nNZVTz
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) May 14, 2024
However, amidst the chaos, the Diamondbacks mounted a comeback in the bottom of the ninth inning, loading the bases with one out and trailing by a single run. Shortstop Kevin Newman, who has been on a hot streak of late, stepped up to the plate.
Newman, who was not initially on the roster but has proven his worth due to injuries, delivered in the clutch once again. With a flick of his bat, he sent a slider from Reds closer Alexis Diaz into right field, driving in two runs for his sixth career walk-off hit.
"I can't take any more of this game, so you're getting the worst of me," D-backs skipper Torey Lovullo told home-plate umpire Mark Carlson after Joc Pederson was thrown out in the eighth inning. pic.twitter.com/zyPpCb2MUA
— Arizona Sports (@AZSports) May 14, 2024
Newman’s stellar performance earned him the title of Diamondbacks’ player of the game, as he finished the night 4-for-5 at the plate and showcased his ability to come through in pressure situations.
Reflecting on his game-winning hit, Newman credited his recent adjustment of focusing on hitting the ball up the middle, which has contributed to his success at the plate.
Manager Lovullo commended the team’s resilience and patience, highlighting the disciplined approaches that led to the game-winning rally. Despite the frustrations earlier in the game, the Diamondbacks remained composed and united in their pursuit of victory.
Joc Pederson said he was ejected for flipping his bat out of frustration with an incorrectly called strikeout.
"I didn't know that was illegal." pic.twitter.com/jdbIoQuKe0
— Arizona Sports (@AZSports) May 14, 2024
The contributions were widespread throughout the lineup, with key performances from Gabriel Moreno, Jake McCarthy, and others. Moreno launched his first home run of the season, while McCarthy displayed patience at the plate, drawing a crucial walk in the ninth inning rally.
Despite the ejections and frustrations, the Diamondbacks rallied together to secure their third walk-off victory of the season, showcasing their determination and spirit as a team.
Looking ahead, the Diamondbacks aim to carry this momentum into their next game as they seek to clinch a series win against the Reds on Tuesday evening. With Slade Cecconi set to start for Arizona, fans can anticipate another thrilling matchup between these two competitive teams.
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