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Diamondbacks 5-2 Victory Over Reds Highlights Lawlar’s Return and Defensive Heroics

6/13/2026, 11:03:55 PM

Game Overview

On June 12, 2026, the Arizona Diamondbacks defeated the Cincinnati Reds 5–2 at Great American Ball Park. Jordan Lawlar, returning from a 60-day IL, made a wall catch, stole two bases and hit a two-run single in the ninth. Starter Eduardo Rodriguez logged 2 2/3 innings with five walks. The bullpen delivered six 1/3 scoreless innings, and Paul Sewald recorded his 16th save, ending a three-game skid.

Key Performers

Lawlar added a hit-by-pitch, two stolen bases, a run-scoring single and the decisive two-run hit. Nolan Arenado contributed a sacrifice fly and key defensive plays. Manager Torey Lovullo praised Lawlar’s instincts.

Timeline of Decisive Plays

1st: Rodriguez walked the bases loaded, then a pop-up ended the inning. 2nd: Ketel Marte homered for Cincinnati. 4th: Lawlar’s wall-crash catch on McLain. 6th: Lawlar HBP, stole, scored on Groover. 9th: Lawlar’s two-run single.

Data & Statistics

Arizona issued nine walks (five by Rodriguez), recorded two hits with runners in scoring position, and logged four stolen bases. No defensive errors; the decisive run came from a Dunn error.

Official Statements & Responses

Lovullo said any win “is a good win right now,” lauding Lawlar’s aggressive play and the bullpen’s six 1/3 scoreless innings. Rodriguez noted he “limited the damage” after walking the bases loaded.

Criticism & Opposition

The win relied on nine walks and a defensive error, highlighting limited offensive production despite Lawlar’s contributions.

On-the-Ground Reports

Lawlar said he simply tried to catch the ball, ignoring potential injury.

Conflicting Reports & Gaps

Sources list Lawlar’s steals as both two and four; walk totals differ between nine overall and five by Rodriguez.

Why It Matters / Impact

The victory halted a three-game losing streak and marked only the fourth win in 14 contests, underscoring the team's reliance on timely defense and opportunistic baserunning. Lawlar’s successful return provides the Diamondbacks with a versatile outfielder capable of contributing both offensively and defensively, while the bullpen’s six 1/3 scoreless innings reinforce its role as a stabilizing factor amid ongoing injuries to starters.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “I was like, ‘I’m just going to try to catch this and whatever happens, happens,’” — Jordan Lawlar, Arizona Diamondbacks center fielder.
  • “Any win is a good win right now,” — Torey Lovullo, Arizona Diamondbacks manager.
  • “I feel bad because, as a starter, I have to go deep into games and I went just 2 2/3,” — Eduardo Rodriguez, Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher.

What's Next

Arizona faces the Reds June 13–14, then the Angels June 15; Puk remains on the injured list.