Don’t look now, but the Diamondbacks (25-23) are very much alive in the National League postseason race. The difference between making and missing the playoffs often comes down to beating subpar clubs. Arizona will attempt to do just that on Thursday against the last place Rockies (19-31). Still, after 2025’s 43-119 campaign, Colorado has looked far more competitive this season. Now, the visitors will attempt to pull off a massive upset tonight in Phoenix.

The Diamondbacks are favorites (-205) over the Rockies, with the over/under set at nine runs. Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Thursday’s showdown between Colorado and Arizona on DraftKings Sportsbook.

Rockies vs. Diamondbacks prediction, preview

Uphill climb is putting it lightly for Colorado this evening. In addition to facing a solid starting pitcher (more on that later), the Rockies will hand the ball to Zach Agnos tonight. Over 43 career appearances, the second-year pro is on the hook for a 6.12 ERA and 1.48 WHIP. It’s not as if the right-hander has fallen victim to the hitter-friendly confines of Coors Field. He’s produced a 5.57 ERA during 19 appearances on the road.

Agnos does rank within the top 92nd percentile in chase rate this season (36.7%). However, generating punch outs could prove difficult in this matchup. Arizona is striking out just 7.65 times per game this season, first in the National League. When this group does make contact, good things tend to happen. The Diamondbacks rank ninth in runs per game (4.60), seventh in batting average (.246) and seventh in slugging percentage (.404). Four different lineup regulars are slugging at least .400: Corbin Carroll (.563), Ildemaro Vargas (.530), Nolan Arenado (.477) and Ketel Marte (.413). In addition, rookie Ryan Waldschmidt is slashing .324/.390/.432 over his first 12 games as a pro.

While Agnos is likey elated not to pitch in Denver, the same can’t be said for his teammates. Colorado is averaging 4.00 runs per game on the road, tied for the seventh-lowest mark in baseball. Still, this group has looked much better at the plate compared to last season. Outfielders Mickey Moniak (148 wRC+) and Troy Johnston (125 wRC+) have been the biggest surprises. Former All-Star Hunter Goodman (104 wRC+) remains one of the sport’s better hitting catchers as well. Five different Rockies regulars own a wRC+ above 100.

Decent offensive numbers aside, Thursday could be a challenge for the visitors. Arizona’s Eduardo Rodriguez is putting together one of his best seasons yet. The 11th-year pro has been inconsistent at best during his time with the Snakes. However, 2026 has been a return to form for the southpaw. Over 53.1 innings pitched, he’s posted a 2.53 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 39 strikeouts (6.6 K/9). E-Rod has allowed three earned runs or fewer in seven of his nine outings so far. That includes a 5.1 inning, three-run showing last weekend in Colorado. Rodriguez’s two favorite off-speed pitches are the changeup (29%) and curveball (10%). Rockies hitters have recorded a .196 batting average and .243 wOBA against those offerings this season.

Rockies vs. Diamondbacks pick, best bet

Is there a chance Agnos puts together a somewhat decent outing? Sure, although it’s not something I’d feel comfortable betting on. Even if the right-hander is respectable, Arizona has overwhelmingly more pitching depth if this becomes a bullpen battle. The Snakes are deeper and more patient at the plate as well. At home, Rodriguez should lead the D-Backs to a comfortable victory on Thursday.

Best Bet: Diamondbacks -1.5 (-108)