Can the Diamondbacks Carry Late Offensive Momentum into Game 2?

The Diamondbacks were able to generate some offensive pressure late in Game 1 with three runs against Zack Wheeler and the Phillies bullpen.

The Diamondbacks were unable to take Game 1 of the National League Championship Series, but there were some positives to take from the game. After falling behind 5-0 early, the D-backs were able to build innings late in the game to give themselves a chance to come back. They were able to cut the deficit to 5-3 and had the potential tying run at the plate in each of the last three innings, ultimately coming up short. Even with the disappointing result, the quality of at-bats at the end of the game can translate into Game 2.

After Zack Wheeler had dominated the D-backs lineup for five innings, retiring 15 straight batters after Carroll opened up the game with a single, they were able to get to Wheeler in the 6th. 

"I felt like this dugout was engaged. We were just waiting for that one little push, and Gerry had that big two-run home run for us and got us right back in it."

The following inning, they took advantage of a Seranthony Dominiguez throwing error on a comebacker, later scoring a run on an Alek Thomas sacrifice fly. That was the first of five chances to bat where one swing of the bat could have changed the game. On all five chances they made an out, going 0-for-4 along with Thomas' sac fly. For the D-backs it can be reassuring that they can not only get to a starting pitcher at the top of his game, but also the Phillies high octane bullpen.

"Yeah, tomorrow is another day" said manager Torey Lovullo last night. "We got to sleep on it and understand what we did right, what we did wrong, and be ready to play another baseball game tomorrow."

After further time for reflection he was more upbeat and ready for battler. 

"To be honest with you, I wasn't surprised we made it a game. With all due respect to the Phillies, I feel like they did what they did. They got the lead, but we just kept charging. I think that's one of the great characteristics that we have. It gave us a little push for today."

It'll be easier said than done for the Diamondbacks to sustain their offensive momentum going into Game 2. They'll face Aaron Nola, who's almost been equally as good as Wheeler this postseason. 

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