PHOENIX — Two and one-half months after the Washington Nationals won two of three games against the Arizona Diamondbacks, the slightly remade versions of the two postseason contenders meet again.
Arizona acquired corner outfielder J.D. Martinez in a trade with the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday, a move that added a right-handed power bat to a lineup that, even with All-Star Paul Goldschmidt, has had trouble against left-handed starters. The Diamondbacks are 10-12 against lefties this season.
Washington acquired relievers Sean Doolittle and Ryan Madson from the Oakland A’s on Sunday in an attempt to strengthen a bullpen that has been the worst in the majors much of the year.