Big inning problems continue for Diamondbacks in blowout loss to Braves
Apr 2, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Ryne Nelson (19) pitches against the Atlanta Braves during the first inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks were once again undone by a single inning, a recurring issue that resurfaced in their 17-2 loss to the Atlanta Braves on Thursday to open a four-game series. Apr 2, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Kevin Ginkel (37) throws during the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Chase Field.
Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images Arizona had swept the Detroit Tigers earlier in the week and was looking to carry that momentum into the matchup with Atlanta. Instead, that momentum was erased in one frame. The Braves were able to square up on right-hander Ryne Nelson’s fastball, and even after he was taken out in the fifth inning, they kept attacking.
It wasn’t just the pitching, but also the Diamondbacks’ defensive mishaps that allowed Atlanta to break the game open. Thursday’s game marked another instance this season in which the D-Backs have struggled to limit damage once an inning begins to unravel. Apr 2, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Braves second baseman Ozzie Albies (1) celebrates with first base coach Dave McKay after challenging a fourth ball during the fifth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field.
Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images Throughout the opening series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, both Nelson and Zac Gallen cruised against a tough offense until one inning spoiled their effectiveness. Against the Tigers, Arizona’s pitching also allowed big innings in two of the three games. The club’s pitching staff has shown the ability to navigate tough lineups effectively for stretches, but when control slips, innings extend longer than intended.
The impact goes beyond the box score. Apr 2, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Braves second baseman Mauricio Dubon (14) hits during the fifth inning at Chase Field against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images When innings extend, pitches pile up and outs become harder to get.