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McCann’s Solo Homer Lets D‑Backs Scratch Out 1‑0 Win Over Phillies

A late, lone run highlighted a series defined by strong pitching, Arizona’s failure with runners in scoring position, and a missed chance to build Wild Card separation.

Sep 2, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Atlanta Braves catcher Sean Murphy (12) hits a three run home run against the Washington Nationals during the sixth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images
Sep. 2, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA;  Colorado Rockies pinch hitter Brett Sullivan (26) hits a two-run single in the eleventh inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Coors Field.  Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Sep 2, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) hits a three-run home run during the second inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Sep 2, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds second baseman Juan Brito (46) throw to first to get San Diego Padres outfielder Dustin Harris (not pictured) out in the ninth inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Overview

  • James McCann delivered the game’s only run with an eighth‑inning solo home run that prevented a sweep and ended Arizona’s losing streak.
  • Phillies prospect Andrew Painter responded to a demotion with a seven‑inning, scoreless outing that showcased his fastball, sweeper and slider and lowered his ERA since returning.
  • Arizona went 0‑for‑17 with runners in scoring position across the series and scored just one run in each game, leaving the offense labeled as the primary shortcoming.
  • The Diamondbacks ran a planned bullpen game that used seven relievers with only Jose Cabrera throwing more than one inning and most relievers recording at least one strikeout.
  • The narrow win underscored a missed opportunity to gain ground in the Wild Card race and illustrated a tradeoff between relying on a bullpen‑heavy approach now and preserving reliever depth for the stretch run.