The Arizona Diamondbacks aim to snap a losing streak as they begin a homestand on Monday against the Cleveland Guardians at Chase Field. First pitch is set for 6:40 p.m., with the team looking to rebound after a tough series loss to the Colorado Rockies. Central to Arizona’s pitching challenge will be right-hander Zac Gallen, who must regain form to help halt the slide.
Analyzing the Starting Pitchers’ Recent Performances
Zac Gallen‘s 2025 season has shown flashes of promise mixed with setbacks. After the Trade Deadline, he secured consecutive six-inning quality starts, boosting hopes for a return to consistency. However, in his latest outing against the Texas Rangers, Gallen gave up a pivotal two-run homer that nearly cost him the game, only avoided thanks to late heroics from Ketel Marte. Despite this, Gallen has struggled overall, ranking with the third-worst qualified ERA in the majors. The Diamondbacks’ ability to stabilize their bullpen heavily depends on Gallen delivering stronger starts moving forward.
On the opposing side, Cleveland’s Gavin Williams has compiled a 3.38 ERA over 24 starts, displaying competitive form throughout the year. Notably, on August 6, Williams came within two outs of a no-hitter before Juan Soto ended the bid with a solo home run. Nonetheless, his recent struggles included allowing four runs in just three innings. Metrics like a 4.58 FIP and 4.23 xERA indicate that while Williams’ surface numbers appear solid, underlying numbers point to vulnerability. His tendency to surrender long balls—18 home runs in 24 starts—is a concern. Williams relies heavily on a high-velocity four-seam fastball paired with various secondary pitches, such as a curveball, sweeper, cutter, and occasional sinker, but the four-seam fastball has been exploited, carrying a .528 slugging percentage against it.
Lineup Adjustments Ahead of the Series
The Diamondbacks will return Pavin Smith to the starting lineup at first base for the first time since suffering an oblique injury nearly six weeks ago. Smith’s activation is a hopeful boost for Arizona as they seek more offensive production. Meanwhile, Tyler Locklear will sit out Monday’s game, with Adrian Del Castillo stepping in to serve as the left-handed designated hitter against right-hander Gavin Williams.
Bullpen Challenges Continue to Hinder Diamondbacks
Arizona’s bullpen remains an ongoing struggle following a recent meltdown loss to the Rockies, where arms like Juan Morillo, Jake Woodford, and Jalen Beeks were heavily used but could not preserve the outcome. The bullpen’s recent difficulties have been a costly factor for the Diamondbacks as they attempt to secure victories in tight games. Conversely, the Guardians deployed four of their top relievers in their last outing, including interim closer Cade Smith and setup man Hunter Gaddis, though Nick Enright took the loss after throwing 34 pitches.
Implications for the Diamondbacks Moving Forward
For the Diamondbacks, the upcoming series against Cleveland stands as a significant opportunity to break free from their recent slide. Zac Gallen’s performance will be pivotal, as his ability to pitch effectively could help ease pressure on an overtaxed bullpen. Meanwhile, the return of Pavin Smith may provide needed offensive sparks. How Arizona manages pitching and lineup challenges in these games will influence their ability to stay competitive in the stretch. For fans and analysts alike, this homestand promises to be a revealing test of the Diamondbacks’ resilience and depth at Chase Field.