The Diamondbacks’ offense has been shut down this season by Clayton Kershaw and Julio Urias, Kyle Freeland and Jesus Luzardo — and, now, by Sean Manaea. All are left-handed. All have played a part in handing losses to the Diamondbacks.
After falling 5-1 on Thursday night to Manaea and the Oakland Athletics, the Diamondbacks are winless in six games this season against left-handed starting pitchers.
Most of those six starters are well regarded in way or another. Kershaw is one of the best ever. Freeland, Manaea and Urias each have some track record of success. Luzardo was considered one of the better pitching prospects in baseball entering this season.