Arizona’s postseason chase took another hit Wednesday night, with Miami leaving Chase Field holding a 4-2 win and the Diamondbacks trailing San Diego by 3 1/2 games for the National League’s last Wild Card berth.
Diamondbacks Fall to Marlins as Wild Card Gap Grows
SEO Title: Diamondbacks Lose 4-2 to Marlins, Fall 3 1/2 Games Back in Wild Card Race
SEO Description: Miami beat Arizona 4-2 at Chase Field as the Diamondbacks slipped 3 1/2 games behind the Padres with nine games remaining.
| Team | Second Inning | Third Inning | Final |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marlins | 2 | 2 | 4 |
| Diamondbacks | 1 | 0 | 2 |
The Marlins got their work done early. They scored twice in the second, beginning with Heriberto Hernández beating out an infield hit to third for an RBI. A second runner scored when Nolan Arenado’s throw to first went astray.
Pavin Smith gave Arizona an immediate answer in the bottom of that inning, driving a homer to right-center to make it a one-run game. The opening did not last long. Jakob Marsee supplied Miami’s decisive swing in the third, a two-run home run that restored the lead to three.
Merrill Kelly worked 4 2/3 innings for Arizona. He was charged with four runs, three earned, and allowed seven hits.
Nine Games Left, Then San Diego
The Padres’ win over Colorado on the same night widened the gap in the standings. Arizona has nine games remaining and will finish its regular season with a three-game set in San Diego, the club currently occupying the final NL Wild Card position.
That closing series remains on the calendar as a chance to change the picture. For now, though, the Diamondbacks need ground back after another difficult night at home.
