The Cleveland Guardians travel west to open a three-game interleague series against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday, August 18, 2025. First pitch is set for 9:40 PM ET at Chase Field in Phoenix, a stadium known for its hitter-friendly dimensions. Both teams remain in the thick of their respective playoff races, giving this matchup extra weight as we enter the late stages of August.
Quick Game Facts
- Date: Monday, August 18, 2025
- Start Time: 9:40 PM ET
- Venue: Chase Field, Phoenix, AZ
- TV Broadcast: Regional Sports Networks / MLB.TV
- Odds: Diamondbacks -120 | Guardians +100 | Total: 8.5 Runs
Team Analysis
Cleveland Guardians
Cleveland enters this series fighting to keep pace in the AL Central, relying heavily on their elite pitching staff. Ace Triston McKenzie has been a steady presence, and the bullpen—anchored by Emmanuel Clase—remains one of the most consistent late-game units in the league.
Offensively, the Guardians continue to rely on José Ramírez, who provides power and leadership in the heart of the lineup. Rookie Kyle Manzardo has emerged as a key contributor, offering left-handed pop that balances the order. However, Cleveland’s lineup can go quiet for stretches, making manufacturing runs crucial.
Arizona Diamondbacks
The reigning NL champs are battling for another postseason push, and their formula remains the same: speed, timely hitting, and underrated pitching. Corbin Carroll is back to being an electrifying sparkplug at the top of the order, while Ketel Marte anchors the middle with consistency.
The Diamondbacks’ rotation has leaned on Merrill Kelly and Jordan Montgomery, with Paul Sewald handling the closer role effectively. The spacious outfield of Chase Field plays right into their defensive strengths, allowing Arizona to limit extra-base damage.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Guardians’ bullpen vs. D-backs’ late-inning rallies – Clase and the relief crew need to stifle Arizona’s small-ball attack.
- José Ramírez vs. Arizona pitching – Can the D-backs keep Cleveland’s star in check?
- Corbin Carroll’s speed vs. Cleveland’s defense – If Carroll gets on base, he changes the game instantly.
Prediction & Best Bets
- Game Pick: Diamondbacks ML (-120)
Arizona’s balance at home and ability to put pressure on pitchers with speed give them the edge in a close contest. - Total Runs Pick: Over 8.5
Chase Field is one of the more hitter-friendly parks in MLB, and both lineups have enough pop and speed to generate runs. - Player Prop: Corbin Carroll Over 1.5 Total Bases
Carroll is seeing the ball well again, and his mix of extra-base potential and speed makes this a strong prop in this matchup.
✅ Expect a competitive series opener where pitching depth is tested, but Arizona’s ability to play aggressive baseball at home should carry them.
