The Cleveland Guardians visit Chase Field to close out their three-game series with the Arizona Diamondbacks on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. First pitch is scheduled for 3:40 PM ET. Cleveland (63–63) turns to young left-hander Parker Messick (1–2, 4.85 ERA, 1.42 WHIP), while Arizona (66–61) counters with Brandon Pfaadt (8–8, 4.12 ERA, 1.24 WHIP). The Diamondbacks are slight home favorites at –130, with the total set at 8.5 runs.
Team Analysis
Cleveland Guardians
Cleveland has battled inconsistency all year, hovering around .500. Their offense is contact-oriented but lacks elite power, relying on José Ramírez (.278 AVG, 27 HR, 89 RBI) to drive production. Josh Naylor (.271 AVG, 22 HR, 76 RBI) provides protection in the middle of the order, while rookie outfielder Chase DeLauter continues to gain valuable experience.
On the mound, Parker Messick is still adjusting to MLB hitters. He’s shown flashes of swing-and-miss ability with 26 strikeouts in 29 innings, but command has been an issue, leading to 12 walks and 5 homers allowed in limited action. The Guardians’ bullpen, however, remains one of their strengths, anchored by closer Emmanuel Clase (28 saves, 2.31 ERA).
Arizona Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks are pushing for a Wild Card spot and have been tough at home. Offensively, they’re led by Corbin Carroll (.265 AVG, 18 HR, 32 SB) and Christian Walker (29 HR, 91 RBI). Arizona’s lineup blends speed and power, with Ketel Marte (.281 AVG, 21 HR) serving as a reliable switch-hitting presence at the top.
Brandon Pfaadt has emerged as a stabilizer in the rotation. He’s racked up 132 strikeouts over 142 innings, limiting walks (just 35) and keeping hard contact in check. Pfaadt has especially excelled at Chase Field, where his command sharpens, and he benefits from Arizona’s solid defense behind him.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Messick vs Arizona’s right-handed bats – Walker and Marte pose serious threats if Messick leaves pitches up.
- Ramírez vs Pfaadt – A classic battle of star vs young arm. Can Pfaadt contain Cleveland’s best hitter?
- Bullpen duel – Clase and the Guardians’ relief depth give them a chance in close games.
Prediction
Arizona holds the upper hand at home with Pfaadt on the mound and a deeper lineup. Cleveland’s path to victory likely depends on Messick limiting early damage and the bullpen keeping things tight. If Arizona’s middle order gets rolling, the D-backs should take the series.
Final Score Prediction: Diamondbacks 5, Guardians 3
Best Bets
- Diamondbacks Moneyline (–130) – Pfaadt gives Arizona the advantage.
- Under 8.5 Runs – Both pitchers could keep this from becoming a slugfest.
- Christian Walker Over 1.5 Total Bases – A favorable matchup against a rookie left-hander.
