Audio By Carbonatix
We don’t have video highlights for this one, but the D-Backs’ early-season come-from-behind win over the Giants to salvage the final game of a three-game series at Chase Field was a beaut.
We were there as Arizona squandered an early three-run lead to the world champs, and it looked like the locals were about to lose their 16th game in 19 tries to a team that (at that point, anyway) was brimming with the confidence that comes with a big shiny championship ring.
But then journeyman Ryan Roberts–little did anyone know what a pivotal character he would become to the D-Backs’ success–two-out single in the eighth inning tied the game.
(Note to those of us–this writer–who plays and coaches fast-pitch softball: When this baseball thing comes to an end, we’ve got to make a run at Mr. Roberts, who exemplifies hustle, doggedness and skill).
Another improbable Arizona hero, rookie pitcher Josh Collmenter (he of the over-the-top delivery) made his MLB debut in this one, stopping the Giants in the 11th and 12th innings after being recalled from Triple-A Reno a few days before.
Collmenter would win ten games for the D-Backs over the course of the regular season, as well as eating up 154 innings (and walking just 28 batters), which few would have predicted.
Stephen Drew got the game-winner in this one.
Note to fans: It’s a shame that Drew wasn’t able to contribute as Arizona pulled away from the field in September. He’s a good player and will be back.
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