Diamondbacks' Playoff Hopes Hang on Rodriguez

The Arizona Diamondbacks face a critical game against the San Diego Padres after a 5-3 loss, which puts their Wild Card hopes in jeopardy. Starting pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez, who has struggled this season with a 5.56 ERA, must improve against a potent Padres lineup that has already secured the top Wild Card spot. Rodriguez's recent performance shows promise with a high strikeout rate but he has been susceptible to home runs. The Padres are expected to rest some key players, possibly affecting their performance. For the Diamondbacks to clinch a postseason spot, they must win both remaining games while hoping for losses from either the Braves or Mets. The matchup is set for Saturday at 5:10 p.m. Arizona time, with rookie Randy Vasquez starting for the Padres.