Snake bites

• Jason Kubel hit his first home run since June 11 on Saturday. The outfielder tallied a career-high 30 long balls last season, but he has just five in 63 games this year. The D-backs would like to see his power numbers pick up down the stretch.

"He's got to do that; we need him to do that," D-backs manager Kirk Gibson said. "He's been working on some things, we've seen it in batting practice and his swings are better in games. If we can get that going, that'll have a significant impact on our season in the second half."

• Although the D-backs' bullpen has recorded consecutive saves in the last three games -- Brad Ziegler twice and David Hernandez once -- Gibson said he would continue to use his relievers in late-game scenarios based on matchups. The manager hopes to have roles defined by the end of the month.

• A day after Giants' right-hander Tim Lincecum tossed a no-hitter using 148 pitches, Gibson was asked Sunday if he would let Patrick Corbin throw that many pitches if he had a no-no going.

"I'd yank him," Gibson said. "If it were Ian Kennedy, I'd maybe let him, but I don't think it would be very smart to let Patrick Corbin throw 148 pitches. You'd be asking for trouble with his career and as well for your team looking long term. It would be hard, but the right thing to do."