6-17-08
Duchscherer vs Webb
For the eigth time in ten starts, Duke allowed two or fewer runs. The only mistake he made was the homer to Giambi, but even he said that he didn't feel he fully connected on the pitch. Duke has only faced the D-backs once in his career, and it was in relief. He'll be going up against '06 Cy Young winner Brandon Webb. In his last start, Webb was very shaky. He was pulled after allowing three runs in five innings against the Mets. He was hit in the hip by a line drive, but the real reason for his early departure was because manager Bob Melvin wanted to rest Webb for this interleague start.
6-18-08
Blanton vs Haren
Blanton pitched another strong game, lasting 6 2/3. He lost the game on one pitch - the grand slam to Matsui. Our offense didn't help him much either, as we lost the game 4-1. Wednesday's start will be his first ever against Arizona, and his first against former teammate, Dan Haren. In Haren's last start, he pitched six innings of two-run ball, but ended up with a ND as he was pitching against the Mets' Santana. This will be his first start against his former team and both starting pitchers are greatly looking forward to this game.
6-19-08
Smith vs Davis
In Smith's last start, he gave up a career-high six walks, but other than that pitched well enough to get the win. He allowed only one run, despite loading the bases multiple times. He said after the game that he wanted to work on his mechanics, but that "a win's a win", and that he'd take whatever he can get. Davis pitched seven shutout innings in his last start, but also allowed four walks and six hits in a ND. He's struggled with his command all season, but especially since coming off the DL. He hasn't won a game since May 23, the day he was activated.
The D-backs were/are in a slump for a while, but they're looking to turn that around. Meanwhile, we're coming off a three game sweep of the Giants where our pitchers and our bullpen were lights out. Hopefully we can continue the great pitching and win another interleague series!