The Arizona Diamondbacks’ Eduardo Rodriguez is set to face the Chicago White Sox, holding a perfect 5-0 record against them. Rodriguez will be on the mound for the second game of a three-game series in Phoenix on Wednesday. The White Sox are coming off an 11-5 victory on Tuesday.
Murakami’s Power Surge
The White Sox have been showcasing their power, having hit 11 home runs in their last three games. Munetaka Murakami has been a key part of this, hitting his ninth home run of the season. Four of those homers have come in the last four games.
White Sox manager Will Venable acknowledged Murakami’s adaptability and success. He noted Murakami’s plate discipline and power, adding that the player is becoming more comfortable.
Rodriguez will be tasked with slowing Murakami down.
Rodriguez’s Changeup
Rodriguez’s changeup has become a more prominent part of his pitching arsenal this season. He showcased the pitch during the World Baseball Classic, where he struck out Byron Buxton with it. The Arizona Diamondbacks’ manager, Torey Lovullo, noted the importance of developing that pitch for him.
Rodriguez threw the changeup about 34% of the time in his first four starts. This is almost double its usage rate from his previous nine seasons. He has also increased his curveball usage, while reducing his fastball usage.
According to Rodriguez, it’s not just about the changeup itself, but how he sets it up. He adapts his pitch selection based on what the game dictates.
Kay on the Mound
Anthony Kay is scheduled to pitch against Rodriguez. Kay earned his only victory of the season on April 9 against Kansas City, pitching 5 2/3 scoreless innings in a 2-0 win. That win ended the White Sox’s three-game losing streak. It also marked Kay’s first major league victory since June 24, 2021, when he pitched five scoreless innings in a 5-0 win for Toronto against Baltimore.
Rodriguez’s History Against Chicago
Rodriguez last faced the White Sox on June 23, 2025. He threw six scoreless innings and struck out 10 in that game, which resulted in a 10-0 victory. It was his 11th career start against them.
Lovullo highlighted Rodriguez’s feel for the baseball, stating that he and Merrill Kelly can throw it where they want and at the speed they want. He believes the changeup has allowed him to be a better pitcher.
Rodriguez did not give up an earned run in his first two starts and won his third outing before receiving a no-decision the last time out, when he gave up a season-high four runs in five innings of an 8-5, 10-inning Arizona victory at Baltimore.