Grit Index: Bell’s ninth-inning miscue extends D-backs’ losing streak to four

The Arizona Diamondbacks’ bullpen gave up another late home run Monday night, as the Miami Marlins came from behind to take the first game of the three-game set 3-2. The loss extended the D-backs’ losing streak to four games overall, and three straight at Chase Field.

Closer Heath Bell came in to pitch the ninth inning either to force extra innings or give the D-backs the chance to score in their half of the inning, but instead he gave up a go-ahead solo shot to Giancarlo Stanton for his 100th career long ball. It was the only hit Bell allowed in his one inning of work but it was enough for the Marlins to record their 22nd win of the season.

D-backs’ starter Patrick Corbin pitched a gem, allowing just two earned runs on a Stanton bomb in the sixth. Corbin lasted eight innings (106 pitches) and struck out seven with only one walk on the night.

Arizona’s offense was a non-factor once again. The only bright spot on offense was first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, who snapped an 0-for-12 skid Monday but it wasn’t enough. As a team, the D-backs left nine base runners stranded and have now scored only eight runs in their last four games combined.

The Good:

Despite continuing to sit at nine wins for the season, Corbin did earn his 12th quality start.

First baseman Paul Goldschmidt snapped an 0-for-12 streak with a solo homer in the third inning. He also walked and had an RBI single in the fifth

The Bad:

Closer Heath Bell has allowed a run in three straight outings and given up four earned runs in his last three innings pitched.

The D-backs combined to go just 1-for-12 with runners in scoring position.

Noted:

• Monday marked the first time in 2013 the D-backs lost a game Patrick Corbin started. They were previously 13-0.

• This was the Diamondbacks 18th loss after leading this season.

• Starter Ian Kennedy decided to drop his appeal of his 10-game suspension and started serving that suspension Monday night against the Marlins.

He Said It:

“We’ve scored eight runs in four games. We should’ve had several runs tonight. We’re in a bad spot at the plate right now. Guys are trying to do too much, thinking too much. Taking pitches would maybe be good for them. You can tell their just thinking about there. It’s a cycle you go through. Pressing up there.” — Manager Kirk Gibson on his club’s struggles at the plate.

Up Next:

The D-backs will play the Marlins in the second game of their three-game series series Tuesday night at Chase Field. Right-hander Randall Delgado will make his second appearance for Arizona and just his first start. He was recalled from Triple-A Reno on June 1 and pitched on June 3. In that appearance, he allowed two runs in two innings against the Cardinals. In 13 starts for the Aces this season, he’s 2-5 with a 5.91 ERA, 35 walks and 57 strikeouts.

For Miami, Nathan Eovaldi will be on the mound. He’s returning from the 60-day disabled list to make his first start of the 2013 season. He was put on the DL March 31 with right shoulder inflammation.

First pitch on Tuesday is set for 6:40 p.m. on Arizona Sports 620.

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