Ryne Nelson starts for the D-backs while Chris Flexen goes for Chicago. For a detailed series preview be sure to check out Aaron Hughes' comprehensive article with pitching matchup detailsTommy Pham is in the White Sox lineup and leading off playing right field. Prior to the game, there was a short ceremony where Pham, Dominic Fletcher and former Farm Director Josh Barfield were presented with their National League Championship rings.
Lovullo had high praise for Pham, describing what he meant to the D-backs last year. Acquired at the trade deadline in 2023, Pham was a catalyst for their run to and through the playoffs and World Series. "We couldn't have done it without him" Lovullo said. Describing what Pham brought to the team and the clubhouse Lovullo was emphatic. "He brought a sense of toughness, a sense of focus and preparation. There was no time to goof off. The timing in which he got here meant so much to us because we might have been missing our direction. He came in and put us on the right trajectory.
Pham was not resigned during the offseason, likely because it was reported that he was looking for a full time role, which Arizona could not provide. Lovullo was surprised that he was not signed earlier. He joked about Pham wanting to prove something to the D-backs. "I know for a fact that he was on the IL, and I guarantee you a part of him went in there and said that on this day against the Arizona Diamondbacks I'm coming to show them that they made a mistake in not bringing me back here. "had three at-bats in an Arizona Complex league game on Thursday. He hit a homer in one at-bat. He will take live at-bats today and play outfield Saturday. The team will decide next steps after that.