Gabriel Moreno recorded three hits, scored two runs, and drove in one, while Ryne Nelson pitched over five solid innings to lead the Arizona Diamondbacks to a 5-2 win over the Chicago Cubs on Friday.
Nelson, who struck out nine batters and allowed only three hits, helped Arizona secure their seventh victory in ten games. Ryan Thompson, coming in relief, managed to escape a difficult situation in the eighth inning with the bases loaded and no outs, conceding just one run. Paul Sewald closed out the game with his 14th save of the season.
“I’m focused on taking it one outing at a time or one day at a time,” Nelson commented. “Keeping a level-headed mindset, especially while pitching, is crucial—focusing on one pitch at a time and staying present. I believe this mindset has really benefited me.”
The Diamondbacks scored three runs in the third inning, with Christian Walker’s single bringing in Moreno and Ketel Marte. Moreno had earlier driven in the first run with a single.
Randal Grichuk and Corbin Carroll also contributed with RBIs for Arizona. Arizona’s recent form will influence their approach as the trade deadline approaches on July 30.
Justin Steele, starting pitcher for the Cubs, struggled, allowing five runs on nine hits over 4 2/3 innings. Known for their strong pitching staff, the Cubs had seen Steele not give up more than three runs in a game in his previous nine starts dating back to May 22.
“We have strong hitters and effective game planning,” noted Arizona manager Torey Lovullo. “Our hitters come to the plate with a clear strategy on how to approach each pitcher, and today it paid off against Steele.”
In the eighth inning, a double by Nico Hoerner was followed by consecutive walks issued by Justin Martinez, loading the bases for the Cubs with no outs. Thompson conceded a sacrifice fly to Ian Happ but managed to escape further damage to preserve Arizona’s lead.
