Pavin Smith's Walk-Off Home Run Keeps Diamondbacks' Playoff Hopes Alive
Published · Updated
Cited: MLB.com, ESPN, New York Post
TL;DR
Pavin Smith, once designated for assignment, hit a walk-off two-run homer to lead the Diamondbacks past the Yankees 5-3, keeping Arizona's playoff hopes alive.
Why now
With only seven games left in the regular season, every win is critical for teams chasing wild-card spots; this dramatic victory came on a night honoring Arizona's 2001 championship team.
Agree / conflict
Multiple reports highlight Smith's unlikely heroics and the Diamondbacks' slim playoff odds, but some analysts note that Arizona still faces a steep uphill climb with a four-game deficit.
Takeaway
Resilience pays off: Smith's journey from being DFA'd to hitting a game-ending homer inspires teammates and fans, but Arizona must win nearly every remaining game to keep their season alive.
On a night when the Diamondbacks celebrated the 25th anniversary of their 2001 World Series title, pinch-hitter Pavin Smith authored a storybook ending. Smith, who was designated for assignment in July and cleared waivers, crushed a two-run homer off Michael Fulmer in the ninth inning to give Arizona a 5-3 win over the New York Yankees. The victory snapped a three-game losing streak and pulled the D-backs within four games of the final NL Wild Card spot with seven to play.
For the Yankees, the loss was a setback in their pursuit of the AL East. Cam Schlittler, a Cy Young Award frontrunner, allowed three runs but was let down by a costly error. New York now trails the Rays by five games with eight left, making a division title unlikely without a sweep of their upcoming four-game series against Tampa Bay. The game also added pressure on Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo, who hinted that his job may depend on reaching the postseason.
FAQ
What does Pavin Smith's walk-off homer mean for the Diamondbacks' playoff chances?
The win pulled Arizona within four games of the final NL Wild Card spot with seven games left, keeping their faint postseason hopes alive.
How did Pavin Smith turn his season around after being designated for assignment?
After being DFA'd in July while hitting .141, Smith cleared waivers and was sent to Triple-A Reno, where he regained his timing and confidence, eventually returning to a key bench role.
What impact does the loss have on the Yankees' AL East hopes?
The Yankees fell five games behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the division with eight games to play, making a division title very difficult but still possible if they sweep their upcoming four-game series against Tampa.
Sources
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