SAN FRANCISCO — The early days of the baseball season have featured Aaron Judge and Kyle Schwarber leading the league in home runs, each with 14 homers. However, Corbin Carroll of the Arizona Diamondbacks is making his case known, currently trailing just behind them with a remarkable performance that includes two home runs in a recent game against the San Francisco Giants.
In a tight match held at Oracle Park on Monday night, May 12, Carroll’s two home runs were pivotal in the Diamondbacks’ 2-1 victory. His powerful hits off Giants starter Justin Verlander demonstrated that power can come from players of all shapes and sizes. At 5-foot-10 and weighing 165 pounds, Carroll’s proficiency for hitting long balls is drawing admiration, especially as he now sits just a single home run shy of the season leaders.
Carroll’s first homer was a strong opposite-field shot that traveled an estimated 381 feet while the second one was even more impressive, launched 419 feet with an exit velocity of 108.8 mph—showcasing his ability to hit with both power and precision. Verlander acknowledged Carroll’s talent, stating, “He’s obviously a great player having a great season, so, yeah, great swings.”
Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly also shined in this game, delivering seven solid innings with only one run allowed. Kelly noted a mechanical adjustment in his approach that led to what he termed his best performance of the season, including a standout change-up that baffled hitters.
It wasn’t all about hitting, as outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. made a critical play in the eighth inning, leaping to catch a hard line drive that preserved the win for the Diamondbacks. His impressive defensive skills were instrumental in maintaining the narrow lead.
In other team news, Diamondbacks bench coach Jeff Banister was hospitalized for precautionary observation, with hitting coach Joe Mather stepping in temporarily. Additionally, reliever Justin Martinez showed promising signs of recovery, having thrown a successful side session and scheduled to face live hitters soon.
Looking ahead, the Diamondbacks continue their series against the Giants, hoping to build momentum in a season where both emerging stars and established players are making significant contributions.
The mix of power hitting from Carroll, solid pitching from Kelly, and crucial defensive plays from Gurriel highlight a potent combination for the Diamondbacks as they aim to solidify their position in the standings. Optimism surrounds the team as they demonstrate resilience and skill early in the season.