D-backs' Soroka Rides Hot Streak to Face Blue Jays

Arizona's young ace looks to continue dominant start as Toronto visits Phoenix.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:24pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the various movements and angles of a baseball pitcher's delivery, with sharp, overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange.Soroka's dominant pitching has been a key factor in the Diamondbacks' early-season success.Phoenix Today

The Arizona Diamondbacks are one of the hottest teams in baseball right now, and they'll look to keep that momentum going as they host the Toronto Blue Jays for a three-game series starting on Friday night. At the center of the D-backs' success has been young pitcher Michael Soroka, who has been on a dominant run of late and will take the mound against the high-powered Blue Jays lineup.

Why it matters

Soroka's breakout season has been a key factor in the Diamondbacks' surprising start, as the 24-year-old right-hander has emerged as one of the top young pitchers in the National League. His ability to shut down opposing offenses will be put to the test against a talented Blue Jays team that boasts a deep lineup of power hitters.

The details

Soroka has been virtually unhittable over his last four starts, posting a 0.84 ERA with 32 strikeouts in 32 innings of work. The Diamondbacks will need him to continue that dominant stretch in order to slow down a Blue Jays offense that leads the majors in runs scored and home runs.

  • The three-game series between the Diamondbacks and Blue Jays begins on Friday, April 17, 2026.
  • Soroka is scheduled to take the mound for the Diamondbacks in the series opener.

The players

Michael Soroka

A 24-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks who has emerged as one of the top young arms in the National League.

Toronto Blue Jays

A Major League Baseball team based in Toronto, Ontario, known for their powerful offensive lineup.

Arizona Diamondbacks

A Major League Baseball team based in Phoenix, Arizona that has been one of the surprise teams in the early part of the 2026 season.

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What they’re saying

“Michael has been lights out for us lately, and we're going to need him to keep that going against a tough Blue Jays lineup.”

— Torey Lovullo, Manager, Arizona Diamondbacks

What’s next

The Diamondbacks and Blue Jays will play the second and third games of their series on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19.

The takeaway

Soroka's dominant stretch has been a major factor in the Diamondbacks' surprising start, and his ability to shut down the Blue Jays' powerful offense will be crucial as Arizona looks to continue its hot streak and solidify its position atop the NL West standings.