Diamondbacks' Bullpen Strategy Falls Short Against Dodgers Amid Playoff Pressure

The Arizona Diamondbacks have turned to a bullpen game strategy in the final stretch of their season as they fight to keep postseason hopes alive, with key pitchers Zac Gallen and Eduardo Rodriguez being rested due to injuries. Manager Torey Lovullo's decision to start left-hander Jalen Beeks as an opener, followed by Nabil Crismatt handling bulk innings, was aimed at maximizing matchups against strong opponents like the Dodgers and Padres. However, this tactic backfired notably in a recent 8-0 loss to the Dodgers, where the bullpen allowed early runs, highlighting concerns about in-game execution despite analytical support for the approach. The team's pitching struggles, coupled with challenges in clutch moments and mounting injuries, have placed them precariously close to elimination from postseason contention. The Diamondbacks must reassess their pitching and overall game strategy to improve effectiveness and capitalize on remaining games. This bullpen game approach, while sometimes successful, has raised questions about its impact on the team's performance in subsequent games and overall playoff viability.