Ildemaro Vargas’ 2-run triple highlights rally that pushes the Diamondbacks past Reds 5-3

Phoenix (AP) — Arizona Diamondbacks' Ildemaro Vargas delivered a decisive four-run seventh inning that pushed the team past the Cincinnati Reds 5-3, securing a series win and maintaining their position in the National League playoff race. Vargas' two-run triple in the decisive inning proved pivotal, as it rolled all the way to the right-center field wall.

The Diamondbacks, trailing 3-1 in the seventh, loaded the bases with no outs against starter Andrew Abbott. A fielder's choice by Lars Nootbaar brought the score to 3-2, and Vargas followed up with his two-run triple, tying the game at 3-3 and then advancing to the winning score with Corbin Carroll's sacrifice fly. Kevin Ginkel sealed the game with a strikeout of Tyler Stephenson, stranding runners on first and second.

Despite his solid performance in the first six innings, Abbott (6-9) gave up four runs and seven hits, including two walks, and struck out six. The Reds had taken an early 3-0 lead in the third inning on Sal Stewart's RBI single and Eugenio Suarez's two-run single. Mitch Bratt, the Diamondbacks' left-hander, lasted just three innings in his second consecutive subpar outing, surrendering three runs and five hits, along with three walks and striking out three.

Arizona's pitching staff remains a critical factor as they strive to keep pace with the San Diego Padres for the final NL wild-card spot.