Who will take the mound for each team? What storylines are emerging? And what can fans expect from the first home game of the year?
Diamondbacks pitcher Michael Soroka (34) pitches against the Rangers during a spring training game in Surprise on Feb. 24, 2026. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Soroka vs. Verlander
The Diamondbacks will turn to right-hander Michael Soroka to set the tone on the mound. It will mark Soroka’s first regular-season appearance in Sedona Red since signing with the club this offseason. His spring training was uneven, as he finished Cactus League play with a 7.50 ERA over 12.0 innings.
Despite those numbers, Soroka will aim to replicate the steadier stretches shown by his fellow starters during the series against the Los Angeles Dodgers — where, despite occasional blowups in single innings, they were largely able to neutralize a powerful lineup.
Mar 12, 2026; Lakeland, Florida, USA; Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander (35) throws during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-Imagn Images
On the other side, the Tigers will send veteran right-hander Justin Verlander to the mound, returning to the team with which he debuted. Verlander’s spring was also turbulent, as he posted a 6.75 ERA over 14.2 innings.
Now in his 21st season, Verlander will look to keep Detroit competitive against a D-Backs lineup that features three Silver Slugger winners at the top.
Mar 26, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Ryan Thompson (81) throws a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers during the sixth inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Bullpen and Late-Inning Offense
The bullpen has been one of the biggest storylines coming out of the three-game sweep by the Dodgers. The staff surrendered crucial late-inning runs in all three contests, and without a left-handed reliever currently in the bullpen, the team will need to continue relying on matchup-based strategies to handle left-handed hitters.
However, the bullpen wasn’t the only concern.
Mar 27, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno (14) hits a single against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the sixth inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The Diamondbacks struck early throughout the series, jumping out to 2-0 leads in every game. But as the games progressed, the offense stalled and momentum faded. Production from veteran bats — such as Nolan Arenado and Carlos Santana — has yet to materialize.
More consistent production beyond the opening frames and a more balanced offensive approach that doesn’t rely solely on the top of the order will be what the club needs to remain competitive.
Apr 2, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll (7) celebrates with shortstop Geraldo Perdomo (2) and second baseman Ketel Marte (4) after defeating the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Silver Sluggers Honored
Fans in attendance will also be treated to a special pregame moment, as Corbin Carroll, Geraldo Perdomo and Ketel Marte are recognized for their Silver Slugger Awards from last season. The trio powered the Arizona offense in 2025, blending contact, power and speed to fuel some of the league’s most explosive performances.
Here’s a closer look at the Silver Slugger awards that will be presented before tonight’s game to Ketel Marte, Corbin Carroll, and Geraldo Perdomo 👀 pic.twitter.com/2mbeyLzaho
— PHNX Diamondbacks (@PHNX_Dbacks) March 30, 2026
The Diamondbacks and Tigers face off on Monday, March 30, with first pitch scheduled for 7:10 p.m.