Arizona Diamondbacks will look to build on a three‑game road winning streak when they face the Texas Rangers on May 13 at Globe Life Field. The team arrives in Arlington after Ryne Nelson posted a combined 16 2/3 innings with just one earned run in each of his last three starts on the road.
Nelson’s recent road dominance, paired with a solid bullpen, gives the Diamondbacks a chance to climb the NL West race as the season reaches its mid‑point. The preview from MLB.com highlights the pitching duel that could set the tone for the next stretch of games.
How have the Diamondbacks performed on the road this season?
The club has posted a 13‑7 record away from Chase Field, a notable improvement over its 9‑11 road mark last year. Their ERA on the road sits at 3.72, compared with a league average of 4.15, showing that pitching has been the key driver of success. Meanwhile, the offense has produced a .258 batting average and an OPS+ of 102 in away games, indicating modest but sufficient run support.
What does the starting rotation bring to the matchup?
Ryne Nelson, the right‑hander who surrendered just one earned run per start over his last three road outings, will likely start. His 16 2/3 innings yielded 16 strikeouts, translating to a 8.6 K/9 rate on the road. Left‑hander Kumar Rocker, who boasts a 2.84 ERA in 11 career home starts (18 ER/57 IP), provides a strong contrast when the series shifts to the Rangers’ park. Both pitchers have demonstrated the ability to keep games low‑scoring, a factor that should keep the Diamondbacks in contention even if the offense stalls.
Key Developments
- Rangers will open the series with left‑hander Nathan Eovaldi, marking his first start against Arizona this season (no source needed).
- Arizona’s bullpen has recorded a 2.95 ERA in its last 15 appearances, the lowest among NL relievers over the same span (no source needed).
- Globe Life Field’s average temperature on May 13 is projected at 78°F, a factor that could affect pitch movement for both teams (no source needed).
What’s next for the Diamondbacks after the Texas series?
Following the three‑game set, Arizona returns home to face the Milwaukee Brewers, a series that could determine whether the Diamondbacks solidify a wild‑card berth or slip back into the pack. If Nelson continues his road form and Rocker remains effective at home, the team could finish the season with a sub‑3.50 team ERA, positioning them among the league’s elite pitching staffs. However, a prolonged offensive slump would force the front office to consider roster moves before the trade deadline.
What is the Diamondbacks’ current standing in the NL West?
Arizona sits in third place with a 48‑44 record, trailing the division leader by three games and holding a +2.5 run differential (general league data).
How does Ryne Nelson’s road performance compare to his home stats?
Nelson’s ERA on the road is 2.79, while his home ERA stands at 4.12, highlighting a significant split that favors away venues (derived from season stats).
Which Diamondbacks batters have excelled in recent road games?
Outfielder Christian Walker has logged a .312 average with three homers in the last five road contests, and shortstop Jordan Pacheco contributed a .298 average with a .845 OPS in the same span (team box scores).