Diamondbacks Edge Cubs 5-4 on Ryan Waldschmidt Walk-Off Homer

Rookie pinch-hitter Ryan Waldschmidt launched a game-winning two-run home run with two outs in the ninth inning to power the Arizona Diamondbacks to a 5-4 comeback victory against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday night at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona.

The victory pulled the Diamondbacks within one game of the San Diego Padres for the final National League wild-card spot. After trailing 4-0 in the eighth inning, Arizona scored three runs off Chicago reliever Daniel Palencia before Waldschmidt capped the rally in the ninth against Jacob Webb.

Chicago built an early lead behind a three-run home run from Ian Happ in the fourth inning and an RBI single by Michael Busch in the sixth. Busch and Seiya Suzuki each recorded two hits for the Cubs.

Cubs starting pitcher Clay Holmes turned in seven scoreless innings, allowing two hits and two walks while striking out five batters. Diamondbacks starter Brandon Pfaadt earned the win after allowing four runs on six hits and two walks across nine innings of work.

Arizona began its comeback in the eighth inning when Jordan Lawlar was hit by a pitch and left the game. Gabriel Moreno delivered a check-swing RBI double down the first-base line, and Geraldo Perdomo followed with a two-run single to bring the Diamondbacks within 4-3.

In the bottom of the ninth, Tim Tawa drew a one-out walk and pinch-runner Jose Fernandez stole second base with two outs. Waldschmidt then stepped up to hit his third home run of the season, a 408-foot shot over the left-field wall to seal the victory.

The three-game series concludes on Wednesday afternoon, with Arizona sending left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez against Chicago starter Matthew Boyd.