Full Breakdown
Rain Delay and Internal Tensions Mark Diamondbacks–Rockies Series Finale
5/18/2026, 2:24:54 AM
Rain Delay Sets Back Series Finale
The Arizona Diamondbacks and Colorado Rockies opened their series finale at Coors Field on May 17, 2026, scheduled for a 1:10 p.m. MT start. A rainstorm prompted a delay announcement five minutes before tip-off; a tarp was laid at 1:12 p.m., fans sent to shelter at 1:31 p.m., and the tarp removed at 2:35 p.m. Play resumed at 1:55 p.m. MT (4:55 p.m. ET), a 1-hour-45-minute delay.
Recent Offensive Struggles
Arizona entered the finale after a 9–1 series-opening win featuring Merrill Kelly’s first complete game, then fell 4–2 in the second game. The loss produced a 2-for-11 line with runners in scoring position and ten stranded runners, highlighting the team’s ongoing offensive slump.
Pitching Matchup
Arizona started right-hander Michael Soroka (5-2, 3.53 ERA); Colorado countered with right-hander Michael Lorenzen (2-5, 6.55 ERA). Soroka has thrown 12 2/3 innings in his last two starts, allowing one run on ten hits, 11 strikeouts and three walks. Lorenzen holds a 3-1 record with a 2.39 ERA against the Diamondbacks.
Timeline of Delay
1:05 p.m. – Rockies announce delay on X; 1:12 p.m. – tarp deployed; 1:31 p.m. – lightning warning; 2:35 p.m. – tarp removed; 1:55 p.m. MT – first pitch.
Statistics
Arizona entered at 21-23, Colorado at 18-28. Soroka’s recent line: 12 2/3 innings, 1 run, 11 K, 3 BB. Lorenzen’s career vs. Arizona: 3-1, 2.39 ERA. The series is tied 1-1, leaving the D-backs outside the NL West wild-card picture.
Official Statements & Responses
The Rockies’ X account confirmed the delay and the revised 2:55 p.m. MT start. Arizona’s SI update noted Soroka’s presence in the dugout before the postponement and warned that extended pre-game warm-ups could affect pitcher health. Both clubs said the weather postponement avoided a full-game reschedule.
Internal Tensions
Manager Torey Lovullo called shortstop Geraldo Perdomo’s public defense of teammate Ketel Marte “targeted for all the wrong reasons” and said the episode created “unpleasant” tension in the clubhouse, raising concerns that internal communication issues could affect on-field performance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was a little difficult. I knew it wouldn't be easy but I knew had to do it.” — Geraldo Perdomo, Shortstop, Arizona Diamondbacks
- “Leaders know how to lead and when to lead, and timing is very important in those situations," Lovullo said.” — Torey Lovullo, Manager, Arizona Diamondbacks
- “I'll always be there for him and I will be there when times are tough. That's why I did what I did that day.” — Geraldo Perdomo, Shortstop, Arizona Diamondbacks
What’s Next
Arizona will host the San Francisco Giants for three consecutive games: May 18 – Zac Gallen vs. Robbie Ray; May 19 – Ryne Nelson vs. Landon Roupp; May 20 – Merrill Kelly vs. Tyler Mahle. The outcomes will shape the Diamondbacks’ pursuit of a postseason berth.
