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Skaggs, just up from minors, strikes out 9 in 6 innings; D-backs take opener of doubleheader

Associated Press
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Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Tyler Skaggs delivers a pitch against the Texas Rangers during the first inning of an inter league baseball game, Monday, May 27, 2013, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Matt York) (The Associated Press)

Arizona Diamondbacks' Paul Goldschmidt scores on a base hit by Martin Prado as Texas Rangers catcher Geovany Soto waits for the throw during the first inning of an inter league baseball game, Monday, May 27, 2013, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Matt York) (The Associated Press)

Tyler Skaggs, just called up from the minors, struck out nine in six scoreless innings and the Arizona Diamondbacks held on to beat the Texas Rangers 5-3 in the opener of a doubleheader on Monday.

Skaggs (1-0), who lost out to Patrick Corbin for Arizona's fifth starting spot in the spring, was recalled from Triple-A Reno after scheduled starter Ian Kennedy cut his right index finger washing dishes.

The 21-year-old left-hander gave up three hits and walked three, one intentionally.

Another 21-year-old lefty, Martin Perez (0-1), took the loss in his first start of the season, allowing four runs, three earned, in 5 1-3 innings.

Cody Ross hit a solo homer for the Diamondbacks.

Adrian Beltre had a two-run single in Texas' three-run ninth.