Grit Index: McCarthy tosses complete game shutout in D-backs win
May 19, 2013, 2:32 AM
Brandon McCarthy tossed a three-hit, complete game shutout and Gerardo Parra hit a first pitch solo home run to lead off the game as the D-backs shut out the Marlins 1-0 on Saturday night in Miami.
McCarthy notched his first win of the season — and as a member of the Diamondbacks. He also became the first D-backs hurler of the season to toss a shutout.
The Good
McCarthy (1-3) has been lights out his past two starts for Arizona. The D-backs’ right-hander tossed eight shutout innings against Philadelphia in his start last Sunday before Arizona’s bullpen blew the lead.
The 29-year-old made sure he was in control of his own fate on Saturday night against the Fish, completing nine scoreless frames to notch his third career shutout. He struck out five and walked two, while throwing 68 of his 99 pitches for strikes.
Offensively, Parra’s solo blast provided the lone support for McCarthy. The D-backs’ leadoff man notched his third career home run, sending the first pitch of game from Marlins’ starter Tom Koehler over the right-center field wall.
The Bad
Besides Parra, the rest of the D-backs’ offense struggled mightily. Arizona was limited to just four hits on the night. D-backs’ hitters also struck out nine times against four Marlins pitchers.
Eric Chavez, who has been swinging the bat extremely well for the D-backs, had a particularly rough night at the plate. Chavez went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts.
Noted
• The D-backs have extended their winning streak to four games, while the Marlins have lost a season-high seven straight contests.
• McCarthy, who signed a two-year contract with the D-backs this offseason, went winless in his first eight starts with Arizona before Saturday’s win.
• Arizona has now won six of their last seven road games.
Up Next
The D-backs and Marlins will play the series finale of their three-game set on Sunday, May 19th. Left-hander Wade Miley (3-2, 3.75 ERA) will get the start for the D-backs. He will be opposed by right-hander Ricky Nolasco (2-5, 4.39 ERA) for the Marlins. First pitch is set for 10:10 a.m. and can be heard on Arizona Sports 620.
