'Back on the train': Randal Grichuk, Ryne Nelson lead D-Backs to narrow win over Giants
D-Backs snap 4-game skid
Grichuk's 3-run homer gives D-Backs early lead
The Arizona Diamondbacks snapped a four-game losing streak with a 5-3 win over the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday night at Chase Field.
Randal Grichuk's first-inning, three-run home run gave the D-Backs an early lead, and Ryne Nelson pitched 5 1/3 solid innings to earn his second win of the season.
The Giants scored twice off the D-Backs bullpen in the eighth inning, but Arizona closer Mark Melancon came on to record the final four outs and earn his ninth save of the season.
Nelson continues to impress
Nelson, the D-Backs' top pitching prospect, has been one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing season for Arizona.
The right-hander has a 3.00 ERA in four starts this season, with 24 strikeouts and just four walks.
Nelson's outing on Tuesday was particularly impressive, as he worked out of a bases-loaded, no-out jam in the third inning.
Grichuk provides offensive spark
Grichuk has been a key contributor for the D-Backs this season, both at the plate and in the field.
The outfielder is hitting .272 with five home runs and 17 RBIs, and he has also made several highlight-reel catches in center field.
Grichuk's home run on Tuesday was his second in as many games, and it gave the D-Backs an early lead they would not relinquish.
D-Backs bullpen holds on
The D-Backs bullpen has been a weak point for the team this season, but they came through in the clutch on Tuesday night.
After Nelson exited the game in the sixth inning, relievers Kevin Ginkel, Ian Kennedy, and Melancon combined to allow just one run on three hits over the final 3 2/3 innings.
Melancon's save was his ninth of the season, and it lowered his ERA to 1.80.
D-Backs look to build on win
The D-Backs will look to build on their win over the Giants when they face the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday night at Chase Field.
Arizona will send left-hander Madison Bumgarner to the mound, while the Cubs will counter with right-hander Marcus Stroman.
First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. MST.
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