The Diamondbacks used to be a team that opposing squads could look forward to playing. Those days are over.
Arizona fought Cincinnati for nine innings, overcoming a 5-0 deficit to defeat the Reds 10-8 in Sunday afternoon action at Chase Field.
Diamondbacks starter Joe Saunders was erratic and gave up five runs over three innings of work, walking five and giving up six hits. Kam Mickolio pitched two perfect innings of relief and provided the D-backs the opportunity to rally back.
Ryan Roberts and Chris Young both hit home runs to spur the home team to victory. Stephen Drew had a big game at the plate, picking up four hits and driving in three runs.
J.J. Putz earned the save in the ninth inning, despite giving up three hits and a run. Putz was able to get past a rough start to the inning, striking out Reds sluggers Juan Francisco and Jay Bruce to put this Arizona victory in the books.
With the impressive win on Sunday, the Diamondbacks moved to 4-4 on the season and are a half game ahead of the defending World Series champions, the San Francisco Giants. After eight games, a .500 record is a strong start for a team that lost 97 games in 2010.
For more on the Arizona Diamondbacks, check out AZ Snake Pit.