McNeil’s Key Hit Drives Athletics Offense
Jeff McNeil delivered the decisive blow for the Athletics with a pinch-hit double in the seventh inning, driving in two runs to break a tie and give Oakland a lead they would not relinquish. His performance helped propel the visiting team to a 5-2 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.
The Athletics established an early advantage in the second inning when Kuroda-Grauer launched a home run to left-center field, measuring 416 feet. The blast gave Oakland a 1-0 lead that held until the fifth inning, when Arizona’s Wilson answered with a home run of his own to left-center field, also measuring 399 feet, tying the game at 1-1.
Seventh-Inning Surge Secures Win
The turning point arrived in the sixth inning when Marte homered to left field, a 402-foot shot that plated Barrosa and gave the Athletics a 2-1 advantage. The lead was short-lived as the Diamondbacks tied the game at 2-2 later in the inning, setting the stage for a dramatic seventh.
With the bases loaded and the game tied, McNeil stepped up to the plate. His double to center field cleared the bases, sending Butler and Langeliers home to make it 4-2. McNeil advanced to third base on the play.
Shortly after, White crossed the plate on a wild pitch by Kevin Ginkel, extending the Athletics’ lead to 5-2. The Diamondbacks were unable to mount a comeback, and the Athletics held on for the win.
