MEDIA CLIPS – July 25th, 2018

Rox come undone in 10th vs. Astros in opener Rockies allows 6 runs in extra frame after rallying in seventh By Thomas Harding MLB.com @harding_at_mlb 12:29 AM MDT

DENVER -- Rockies center fielder wasn't sure exactly what to do. And this time of the year, against an opponent like the defending World Series champion Astros, indecision often leads to defeat.

Blackmon's first error of the season -- for two bases on 's 10th-inning leadoff single -- led to a six- outburst that sent the Rockies to an 8-2 defeat on Tuesday night in the opener of a two-game set at .

In the grand scheme, the Rockies didn't lose ground. They remained 2 1/2 games behind the West leading Dodgers, who dropped a 7-4, 16-inning decision to the Phillies on Tuesday night.

Blackmon charged in for Reddick's sinking line drive, then stopped and failed to block the ball, allowing Reddick to reach third. From there, the inning spun out of control against (0-3), who pitched more than one inning for the first time this season.. 24th, 2018

For a majority of innings, the Rockies have risen to the execution standard necessary against strong teams. They entered having won a club-record six straight series against teams above .500. Starter held the Astros to three hits in 7 1/3 innings, and the Rockies' offense used a patient hitting approach in the seventh to turn what had been a solid start by Astros righty into a no-decision.

"The team played a great game tonight, until that 10th inning," said Davis, who said he didn't put pitches where he wanted. "I thought we battled well. Offense was great. Starting was great. Everything was looking good."

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However, Blackmon's misplay and Davis' struggles weren't the only areas where the Rockies fell short. After Chris

Iannetta was hit on the right forearm by Astros reliever Joe Smith to open the eighth, pinch-hitter fouled off two bunt attempts then struck out when the Rockies were trying to play for one run and turn the game over to Davis with a lead.. 24th, 2018

"Our defense has been one of our strengths all season," Rockies manager said. "You can look at the games that we've played, all 100 of them, and I would say we are one of the best defensive teams in the league, in all of baseball. And tonight there were a couple of mishaps. That's part of the human element of this game."

But Davis, who had not allowed a run in 10 of his previous 11 outings, couldn't stop the Astros after Blackmon's error.

Davis gave up four hits, including 's go-ahead RBI single, pinch-hitter Kyle Tucker's two-run and 's 17th homer.

Anderson started inauspiciously. committed an error on Springer's grounder to lead off the game then Alex

Bregman hit his 21st homer of the season. Anderson said he misread the scouting report and went in believing to his eventual chagrin that an inside was the way to go. Anderson had not faced any of the Astros before.. 24th, 2018

The earned run upped Anderson's first-inning ERA to 7.71. But Anderson settled down, giving the Rockies further reason to believe their starters are more talented than the realistically available available via trade before next Tuesday's non-waiver Trade Deadline.

After the homer, Anderson didn't allow another runner into scoring position and finished his outing holding the Astros to three hits. His biggest problems came in the fourth, when he walked Reddick and Marwin Gonzalez. However, he picked off Reddick using a similar move that also worked against Jose Altuve in the first inning.

"What we saw is really what we've seen the last number of starts from Tyler," Black said. "A good fastball, in and out, to both left- and right-handed hitters. A good change, a good , mixed in a couple of . He pitched.. 24th, 2018

"The trick is to continue that now for the next couple of months to give us a chance to win, which he did."

In his last seven starts, Anderson has compiled a sparkling 2.12 ERA while helping the Rockies into playoff contention. It was reminiscent of last September, when he went 3-1 with a 1.19 ERA while helping the Rockies secure their first postseason berth since 2009. 2

"It's just games, even from the beginning of the season," Anderson said. "Just right now, as the season goes on, you get into a better groove."

Cole struck out nine in 6 1/3 innings and didn't give up a hit until 's fourth-inning single.

But the Rockies' controlled hitting approach kicked in during the seventh. Consecutive doubles by Nolan

Arenado and Carlos Gonzalez, the second driving in a run, were to the middle of the field. Gerardo Parra, who had struck out twice, chased Cole with a single to right-center that drove in the tying run.

MOMENTS THAT MATTERED

After Iannetta got hit by a pitch, Black turned to Tapia in the bottom of the eighth to try and put a runner in scoring position and break the 2-2 tie. On Saturday in Arizona, Tapia hit a pinch-hit grand slam to put the Rockies on top of the D-backs -- and the Rockies hoped Tapia could do more of the same on Tuesday.

But Tapia failed to execute his role, fouling off two bunt attempts to bring it to a 2-2 count before swinging through Smith's

86.6 mph fastball for the first out of the inning.

Blackmon struck out after Tapia, but Desmond reached first on an error by Astros' first baseman Yuli Gurriel. With runners on first and third base, Arenado popped out to Bregman, and the score remained tied.

SOUND SMART

Anderson picked off two Astros in Tuesday's game, which tied the franchise record. Anderson nabbed Altuve at first base in the first inning and Reddick at first in the fourth inning after walking Reddic. 24th,

Anderson is the ninth Rockies to pick off two baserunners in a game and the first since Tyler Chatwood on April

5, 2017, at Milwaukee.. 24th, 2018

UPDATE

Iannetta was replaced by Noel Cuevas as a pinch-runner and Tony Wolters at catcher after he was hit by a pitch, but he reported after the game that it was a bruise that didn't require an X-ray.

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UP NEXT

The Rockies will complete the two-game series with the Astros at 6:40 p.m. MT on Wednesday. Rockies right-hander Jon

Gray (8-7, 5.44 ERA) will face Astros righty Charlie Morton (11-2, 2.96 ERA), as Gray tries to continue his comeback from Triple-A Albuquerque, where he spent two weeks. Gray was recalled on July 14 and started against Seattle, allowing one run on five hits with one walk and six over 7 1/3 innings. Wednesday will be Gray's first start against

Houston.

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Rockies might target Brach in trade By Thomas Harding MLB.com @harding_at_mlb Jul. 24th, 2018

DENVER -- The Rockies were expected to make a push for Orioles lefty closer Zach Britton, but according to a report, the

Yankees agreed to send three Minor League pitchers in a package to Baltimore for Britton on Tuesday night. However, indications are Orioles righty Brad Brach or one of the multiple Angels relievers who could be available have emerged as potential Rockies targets.

The Rockies -- contending in the National League West -- are looking to improve the bullpen. The team's right-handed relievers have performed well during the club's recent surge, but there are questions regarding the lefties.

That issue was underscored Tuesday, when Chris Rusin, who has been struggling, went to the 10-day disabled list with left plantar fasciitis. The likely plan, however, is to seek an upgrade, regardless of handedness.

The Rockies inquired on Britton and several other relievers early in the offseason before splurging on Wade Davis (three years, $52 million), Jake McGee and Bryan Shaw (both three years, $27 million). Even with those expenditures, the

Rockies are scouring for more relief help.

The Indians acquired Padres lefty closer Brad Hand after the All-Star Game in a deal that included Cleveland's top prospect, catcher Francisco Mejia. However, Mejia's prospect buzz is linked to him remaining at catcher, and that is not certain as his career develops.

Brach (1-2, 4.97 ERA, 10 saves in 41 games) pitched for Rockies manager Bud Black with the Padres 2011-13. The

Rockies also took a long look at him at last year's deadline.

With the Angels in a one-step-forward, one-step-back season, indications are the Rockies could explore several options.

The Angels have multiple relievers under club control beyond this season. Topping the list is lefty Jose Alvarez (4-3, 3.24

ERA), who going into Tuesday had struck out 39 against 15 walks in 41 2/3 innings in an American League-leading 51 games. Alvarez isn't eligible for free agency until 2021.

Righties Justin Anderson (2-2, 3.19 in 36 games), Cam Bedrosian (3-2, 3.71, one in 48 games) and Blake Parker (2-

1, 2.98 in 44 games) also are pitchers with club control beyond this year.

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To go the veteran route, the Rockies could look at righty Jim Johnson, 35, who is at the end of a two-year, $10 million deal, but he returned Sunday after missing six weeks with a lumbar strain. Johnson (2-2, 3.86, one save) has postseason experience -- with the Orioles in 2012.

The Rockies also have been linked to a pair of Orioles starters, righties Kevin Gausman and , according to

MLB Network Insider Ken Rosenthal. The Rockies have said they are considering acquiring starting pitching, but have to balance whether they can upgrade their rotation without affecting their depth.

Catching is an area the club could look to upgrade, but they are not expected to meet the Marlins' asking price for J.T.

Realmuto, and the Rays' Wilson Ramos is sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Story honored with Heart and Hustle Award

Rockies Trevor Story was selected as the 2018 Heart and Hustle Award winner, the

Players Alumni Association announced Tuesday.

The award, the only one in MLB that is voted on by former players, honors a player from each MLB team who demonstrates a passion for baseball and show values, spirit and traditions of the game. At the end of the season, fans, alumni and active players can vote to select the final winner, who is announced in November.

"It's one of the things I kind of pride myself on -- heart and hustle, the name of the award," Story said. "I know it's a big deal to win this award, and I'm just very honored. I know a lot of great players who have won it, so it's an honor."

The final winner will be announced on Nov. 8 at the 19th Annual Legends for Youth Dinner in New York City. This event is the primary fundraiser for the series of free Legends for Youth Baseball Clinics. These clinics impact more than 18,000 children each year at 185 clinics, allowing them the unique opportunity to interact with and learn from players who have left a lasting impact on the game of baseball.

Righty Chad Bettis, whose right middle finger blister flared after 70 pitches during a rehab start for Triple-A Albuquerque on Saturday, will throw a side session on Wednesday then likely will have another rehab outing.

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Righty German Marquez, currently on paternity leave, has been scheduled for Sunday's series and homestand finale against the Athletics. Marquez announced the birth of his son on Instagram with the message: "Welcome to the world. I love you."

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Rusin to DL with foot injury; Musgrave reinstated By Anne Rogers MLB.com Jul. 24th, 2018

DENVER -- The Rockies put left-handed pitcher Chris Rusin on the 10-day disabled list Tuesday with plantar fasciitis in his left foot. Left-hander Harrison Musgrave was reinstated from the DL after suffering a right hip flexor strain.

Rusin has struggled this year compared to last year. He is 0-2 with a 6.81 ERA in 35 relief appearances this season. In 39

2/3 , he has walked 20 and struck out 34. Last season, he made a career-high 60 relief appearances, going 5-1 with a career-best 2.65 ERA in 85 innings pitched.17th, 2018

It is Rusin's second stint on the DL this season after going on the 10-day DL on April 23 with a right intercostal strain.

Musgrave made his Major League debut on April 23 against San Diego this season. Before he went on the disabled list on

July 14, he went 1-3 with a 4.76 ERA in 20 relief appearances (28 1/3 innings pitched). Musgrave has allowed 16 walks and struck out 20.. 6th, 2018

Musgrave recorded his first win on July 13 against the Mariners, when he threw three innings and allowed three runs and two hits. Musgrave's right flexor strain flared up during the last inning of that outing.

Musgrave made one rehab appearance for Triple-A Albuquerque on Saturday. He threw 33 pitches in two innings, walked two and struck out two.

"Felt good, felt normal, body felt good, which is the main thing," Musgrave said on Tuesday. "Everything has been going well so far."

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After a pitchers’ duel leads to extras, Astros beat Rockies behind 5 runs in the 10th inning off Wade Davis Davis made his first appearance of more than an inning since throwing two for the Cubs on Oct. 18, 2017, in the NLCS By KYLE NEWMAN | [email protected] | The Denver Post PUBLISHED: July 24, 2018 at 11:08 pm | UPDATED: July 25, 2018 at 10:14 am

To beat the defending world champions — and a team that’s once again on pace to surpass the 100-win mark — scrappy sparring won’t be enough. You’ve got to knock them out.

The Rockies lacked that decisive blow Tuesday night, but the Astros didn’t. Houston hammered closer Wade Davis for five runs in the 10th inning in an 8-2 victory over Colorado at Coors Field that turned a pitchers’ duel in an extra-inning snoozer.

“It just sort of got away from us,” manager Bud Black said. “It was a great game. They bunched some hits together in the

10th. … They had some (good) at-bats and they did some things offensively to put them in a position to score some runs.”

Davis — who made his first appearance of more than an inning since throwing two for the Cubs on Oct. 18, 2017, in

Game 4 of the National League Championship Series — set the Astros down in order in the ninth, but two singles, a walk, a triple and a two-run homer by George Springer sealed the win for Houston the next inning.

The game’s hit-laden ending marred an overall gritty performance by the Rockies, who surged into the all-star game on a

13-3 tear and won their first series on the road at Arizona after the break.

Tyler Anderson, one of the key leaders in Colorado’s July resurgence, went toe to toe with one of the American League’s best starters, Gerrit Cole, after Anderson got into first-inning trouble.

Alex Bregman’s two-run dinger to left gave Houston the early lead following an uncharacteristic error by shortstop Trevor

Story on Springer’s opening at-bat of the game, and the Astros’ ability to strike first underscored the continued opening- inning struggles by the Rockies’ rotation.

Despite the fact the unit paced the team to its pre-all-star hot steak, it still has a 7.74 ERA this year in the first inning, by far the worst mark in baseball. And after Bregman’s dinger, the Rockies’ offense faced an uphill climb against Cole even as Anderson settled in.

“After that (), I just tried to stay in the strike zone early,” said Anderson, who threw first-pitch strikes to 21 of 26 hitters. “They like to swing a lot, and we have a great defense, so I just needed to throw strikes and let them put it in play.”

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Houston’s flame-throwing righty entered the game with the fifth-best ERA in the American League at 2.52, and Cole pitched true to his stat line by working an upper-90s fastball on the black all night, perplexing Rockies hitters and striking out nine through the first six innings.

“(Cole) had a really good fastball that he was pitching aggressively with — anywhere from 96 to 98 miles per hour with some life to it,” Black said. “This guy went into the game with 177 strikeouts in (128 ⅓) innings with only 81 hits. This guy’s got good stuff.”

But the seventh was a different story.

In the third time through the lineup, Nolan Arenado led off with a , which was followed by a Carlos Gonzalez double and a Gerardo Parra single that evened the game 2-2 and chased Cole from the game.

From there, Colorado had a sense of momentum against the Astros bullpen, which it carried into the eighth.

Pinch hitter Chris Iannetta was hit to open the frame, and after a two-out error by Houston first baseman Yuli Gurriel on a sharply hit grounder by Ian Desmond, Arenado strode to the plate with runners at the corners and a chance for the

Rockies to take the lead. He then popped out in foul territory to keep the crowd on edge.

Arenado’s pop-out was proceeded by strikeouts by Tapia, who fanned after failing to bunt to advance the runner from first, and Charlie Blackmon.

“As far as Tap not getting the bunt down, that’s a situation where late in a game we’d like to get a guy into scoring position,” Black said.

Meanwhile, the Rockies’ bullpen did its part following Anderson’s departure in the seventh. Adam Ottavino came on to strike out the final two batters of that frame, and Davis looked good in the ninth before the fateful 10th was sparked by a sinking line drive by Josh Reddick to center field that skipped by Blackmon, turning a scorebook single into a leadoff triple.

It was Blackmon’s first error of the season and the blunder snapped his 149-game errorless streak dating back to last

July, which per Elias is the second-longest such streak by an outfielder in franchise history (Cory Sullivan, 155).

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“You look at all close games, and they come down to a couple different plays,” Black said. “Tonight, there were a couple mishaps, and it’s part of the human element of this game.”

After Davis yielded the five-spot to earn the loss, rookie right-hander came on and proceeded to give up one more run on three hits. Hector Rondon earned the win for Houston after pitching a one-two-three ninth.

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Rockies Mailbag: Nolan Arenado update, MLB trade deadline, podcast talk and more Patrick Saunders: “If I were Bridich, I would give up a lot to land Realmuto.” By PATRICK SAUNDERS | [email protected] | The Denver Post PUBLISHED: July 24, 2018 at 8:34 pm | UPDATED: July 25, 2018 at 9:23 am

Does anybody know whether a Nolan Arenado trade is going to happen or not? There’s been some talk about how he’s getting really sick of losing so much with the Rockies, and people hear that he’s demanding to be traded, and if he’s traded, they’re in a hole.

I just want to know because the Rockies are my favorite team and I can’t stand watching them lose, it breaks my heart to see them struggling.

— Matt, Waterford

Matt, I’m guessing you wrote this before the Rockies’ recent hot streak (15 wins in 19 games heading into a two-game series with the Astros).

First of all, Arenado has never demanded to be traded. In fact, that topic has never come up. It’s likely to become a topic this winter, but Arenado will not be traded this season.

The discussion is about whether or not he will stay with Colorado beyond next season, when he’s scheduled to become a free agent.

I’ve written about this topic before, including in a recent mailbag.

Here is another interesting take from Jeff Passan of Yahoo! Sports:

The possibility of Arenado going anywhere this season is nil, not with the surging into playoff contention with seven straight wins and finding themselves just two games back of the .

At the same time, multiple executives see Arenado as an exceedingly desirable target this winter for a number of teams, including the Atlanta Braves, , , Los Angeles Angels, New York Yankees and

Philadelphia Phillies. While the Angels are the only team without a potential long-term solution at third, the other teams could seek upgrades via the 27-year-old Arenado, widely regarded as one of the best players in the NL.

What, then, would compel Colorado to even consider dealing him? Arenado is a free agent after the 2019 season. Upon the completion of the -to-the-Dodgers deal last week, executives opined that Baltimore could have fetched more for him over the winter, even coming off a rough season. Unless the Rockies are primed to spend $300 million to keep Arenado, the best move may be to cash in for a treasure chest of prospects and major league-ready talent,

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fill in other weaknesses with the $25 million or so in arbitration Arenado is due to make and retool using an incredible asset.

Patrick, the trade deadline is going to be here before we know it. With teams like the Dodgers making moves, it makes me think GM Jeff Bridich has to do something. Maybe give up a prospect and an outfielder for a starter or bullpen help?

— Joe, Aurora

Joe, I agree that the Rockies need to do something, but not just because the Dodgers trading for Manny Machado. My feeling is that the Rockies need another piece for the bullpen, especially a left-handed reliever. I wrote about that topic in my recent Sunday column:

It’s no secret that spanning the chasm from starting pitchers to late-game relievers Adam Ottavino and Wade Davis was a disaster in the first half of the season. Entering a key weekend series against the Diamondback, Rockies pitchers owned a dreadful 6.94 ERA, 1.63 WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched) and .303 batting average against in the seventh inning.

I don’t think the Rockies are targeting a starting pitcher, though I wouldn’t be shocked if they did so. I also wouldn’t be shocked if they made a move for a veteran catcher, but I have not heard anything that leads me to believe they will acquire one.

Hey Patrick, I find it odd that the Rockies only have one number in Helton’s 17 retired. Yes, they have 42 with

Jackie Robinson but I thinks it’s odd some of the greats from years past like aren’t considered.

Also, is there any talk from the Rockies about adding any new statues outside the ball park?

–Alex, Pueblo

Alex, I have not heard about any plans for any additional statues outside of Coors Field. I would imagine that anything like that would more likely be included in the Rockies Hall of Fame when a new entertainment complex is built next to Coors

Field.

I don’t find it odd that there are no other numbers retired, apart from Helton’s. He spent his entire career with the organization and that makes him unique among Rockies stars.

Thanks for the coverage Patrick, if you were a betting man would you put your money on the Rockies making the postseason this year? I love October baseball here in Denver.

— Todd, Denver

Todd, I too love October baseball in Denver.

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It’s interesting that you ask that question, because Mark Kiszla and I just had a debate on how many wins it will take for the Rockies to get to the playoffs.

But to answer your question, yes, I do think the Rockies will make the playoffs this season, but I don’t think they will win the NL West.

What do you think the chances are that Arenado, Trevor Story and DJ LeMahieu are all still starting for the

Rockies in 2020?

— Vaughn Park, Santa Clarita, California

Vaughn, the chances of that happening are zero. Story will still be here, but I think LeMahieu will be gone after this season and I think Arenado could be gone by the middle of next season.

With the likes of , Brendan Rodgers and other prospects ready to contribute, I think the Rockies will let

LeMahieu walk after this season.

Here is my recent story on that topic.

Hey Patrick, no question for you this week. I just wanted to let you know you did an awesome job on the Rockies grounds crew story.

— Bailey, Aurora

Bailey, wow, that’s nice to hear. Thanks for taking the time to read my story, as well as taking time to reach out.

I love writing stories like that, but the daily grind as a beat writer doesn’t give me a lot of chances to do so. Anyway, thanks for encouragement.

For those who didn’t read it, here is a link to that story.

German Marquez is batting over 400. Has Bud Black ever consider using him as a pinch hitter? What’s his OPS?

— Bob Mann, Centennial

Bob, Black has thought about it, but the necessity of doing so has not come up — yet. If the Rockies are in a pinch, so to speak, I’m sure Black will call on Marquez.

He’s currently hitting .361 (13-for-36) with one home run and an OPS of .806.

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Patrick, did you get to talk to at all when he was in town for the 25th anniversary at Coors Field.

What is he up to these days? Any chance he comes back to Colorado in the front office in some capacity?

— Jax, Denver

Jax, I did get to talk to Todd and he gave me a big bear hug. He’s a funny guy. Talk to him off the record, or one-on-one, and he’s a blast. Get him in front of the camera and he turns into Mr. Cliche.

Anyway, he is still living full time in Knoxville, Tenn., though he is no longer part of the University of Tennessee baseball program. He told me he’s playing a lot of golf. He still owns his ranch in northeast Colorado near Kersey.

Patrick, love your coverage of the Rockies. I’m advocating that the team go all-in to win the NL West this year, and it seems to me they have two moves that would make that a much more likely possibility — trade for Jacob deGrom and also J.T. Realmuto. If those moves require us to lose some combination of prospects, including

Brendan Rogers or in a trade for deGrom (the guy is a legitimate MLB ace, and there are very few of those), or and Ryan McMahon or or Raimel Tapia, then we should move those guys.

I know the price, in terms of prospects, is likely higher than Bridich wants to pay. But I think these kinds of moves also have the potential of saving the team A LOT of salary money to keep Nolan Arenado. We might see him sign for a much more reasonable number if we’ve demonstrated that kind of aggressive commitment to winning. The window for the division is open this year. We need to capitalize on it!

— Allen, San Antonio,

Allen, the thought of deGrom pitching for the Rockies is pretty tempting. This year, the 30-year-old is making $7.5 million, and he has two years of arbitration remaining before he’s eligible to become a free agent after the 2020 season. Though arbitration, his salary will almost certainly double next season, then take another big jump for 2020. Still, he’s a relative bargain.

The problem I have with the scenario is that it’s a major gamble to bring in an outsider and expect him to have immediate success at Coors Field. I think the way the Rockies have raised their homegrown starters to deal with altitude is the smarter, more cost-efficient way. Bottom line: I don’t see the Rockies getting deGrom.

As for Realmuto, I would be all in on getting the 27-year-old catcher. He has a chance to be the best catcher in baseball and I think he would help the Rockies immeasurably. If I were Bridich, I would give up a lot to land Realmuto. I have not seen anything to indicated the Rockies will pull off that kind of trade, but I would be all for it. 15

I have really enjoyed listening to the “On the Rox podcast this season. I wanted to see if you were going to have any former Rockies on the show. It would be really cool to have Helton, Vinny Castilla or Walker on as a guest.

— Will, Arvada

Thanks for listening, Will. I’ll put Castilla on the calendar. It will be tough to get Helton, and especially Walker, but let me see what I can do.

With Helton coming up for Hall of Fame consideration, he might be up for it.

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Kiz vs. Saunders: How many victories do Rockies need to make the playoffs? A year ago, Colorado qualified for the play-in game with 87 victories. By PATRICK SAUNDERS | [email protected] | The Denver Post July 24, 2018 at 3:35 pm

Question: How many victories do the Colorado Rockies need to make the playoffs?

Kiz: The Rockies refused to fold. After swooning in June, they are right where we thought they’d be all along, firmly in contention for a playoff spot as we approach the July 31 nonwaiver trade deadline. So here’s a tip of the cap to Trevor

Story, , Nolan Arenado, Bud Black and my main man, Ian Desmond, for climbing back in the race. Now for the fun part: How many games must the Rockies win to punch their ticket to the playoffs?:

Saunders: Wow, that’s a toughie. A month ago, I would have said the only path to the postseason was by winning the

National League West. That’s no longer true, because the Rox are very much alive for a wild-card spot. But I’m going to ignore that and focus on what they need to do to win the NL West. The Dodgers are on pace to win 91 games, and I’m betting they’ll win 95. That means the Rockies could have to finish 43-21 to win the division outright with 96 wins.

Kiz: Let me run this little theory by you, my friend. Manny Machado going to the Los Angeles Dodgers was a good thing for the Rockies, at least in the short term. The Dodgers were going to win the West with or without Machado, so it’s better that Machado call Chavez Ravine home rather than whatever they’re calling that ugly monstrosity of ballpark in Phoenix these days. If the Rockies can climb past the Diamondbacks in the standings, here’s thinking this division might well produce a second playoff team.

Saunders: FYI, I call Chase Field the Big Credit Card. But I digress with my latest attempt at humor. But you’re right, the

NL West could very well produce two playoff teams. That’s part of the reason it was so important for the Rockies to break the D-backs’ hex by winning four of the last five games between the two teams.

Kiz: A year ago, Colorado qualified for the play-in game with 87 victories. Here’s thinking it will take 88 to make it this season, because while Atlanta, Philadelphia, Milwaukee and Arizona all appear vulnerable, they won’t all stumble down the stretch. But if Colorado wants to participate in more than one playoff game this season, the first one better be at Coors Field. I’d say that will require 90 victories. Can the Rockies get there?

Saunders: Yes, I think that’s doable, but only if the Rockies make a move to beef up their bullpen by adding a reliable late-game lefty. I think Colorado’s offense is in a good place and the starting pitching is good enough to get them to 90 — unless there is an injury. But, to paraphrase California beach boy Brian Wilson, wouldn’t it be nice if the Rockies won a division title for the first time in their history?

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Journal: Where the Rockies stand on proper ballhawking etiquette Colorado manager Bud Black on the practice: “It can be brutal. It can be dangerous. It can be warfare. There can be injuries.” By KYLE NEWMAN | [email protected] | The Denver Post PUBLISHED: July 24, 2018 at 7:35 pm | UPDATED: July 24, 2018 at 8:39 pm

It didn’t take long Sunday for a broadcast clip of a male Chicago Cubs fan swiping a baseball meant for a little boy to go viral. The Twittersphere was outraged by the apparent audaciousness of an adult ballhawk.

But it also didn’t take long for the actual truth to be more thoroughly revealed the next day, when it was determined the man had already helped that kid, and a couple of others, get balls earlier in the game.

Cut4

✔@Cut4

When going to a baseball game, DON'T be this guy.

3:38 PM - Jul 22, 2018

David Kaplan

✔@thekapman

I spoke with people from the Cubs. The man who grabbed the ball on the widely seen video had actually already helped the little boy get a ball earlier. The young man has a game used ball and a Javy Baez ball. All is well. Guy is A-OK so let it go people.

9:40 PM - Jul 22, 2018

Still, even those late-to-emerge facts didn’t change the minds of many couch critics who saw disappointment in the kid’s face when the ball, tossed to him in the front row by Chicago first-base coach Will Venable, ended up in the hands of the man’s gleeful wife.

The kid ended up getting a signed baseball from Javier Baez — in addition to the ball purportedly fetched for him earlier in the game by the would-be villain — but the internet debate raged on: What is the proper etiquette for ballhawking?

It’s a multifaceted question that I took into the Rockies’ clubhouse Tuesday ahead of the homestand opener against

Houston at Coors Field.

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“It’s increased,” manager Bud Black said. “Ballhawking for me now (means) every inning. If the first baseman comes in and has the ball, he throws it up to the fans. It can be brutal. It can be dangerous. It can be warfare. There can be injuries.”

Black said that with a half-smile, his statements part hyperbole and part ugly truth. The rise of the competitive ballhawk — specifically, grown men intent on collecting as many foul balls, home runs and end-of-inning throwaways as possible — is on consistent display at games throughout the major leagues.

Zack Hample, the most well-known and successful of all modern ballhawkers, has collected more than 10,000 balls and written multiple books on the subject. The 40-year-old has also come under fire from critics who say his aggressive tactics undermine the fun for others, namely kids trying to reel in their first ball.

Rockies reliever Adam Ottavino, well-versed in Hample’s resume and the overall ballhawking trend, believes there’s a fine line to be walked as an adult who’s trying to take home a sphere souvenir.

“If you’re taking balls away from kids — I don’t like that, and that’s my main concern about ballhawking,” Ottavino said.

“Other than that, if (Hample) wants to get there at stadiums and do all the statistical research to catch balls, I’ve got no problem with it.”

Black also reminisced about the best ballhawking he has seen in his decades-long career as a player and coach.

“There was nothing better than at Candlestick Park when a home run would be hit to left field, and you’d see people jump out of the bleachers and then run to retrieve the ball because there was a big space between the outfield wall in San

Francisco and where the stands where,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Rockies were consistent in their answers about who they prefer end up with the balls they toss into the stands.

“I look for young kids, boys and girls,” Trevor Story said. “And if we’re on the road, that’s easy — I look for Rockies fans.”

That sort of player mind-set benefits kids like Brayden Sherred, in town visiting from Albuquerque. Down on the field watching batting practice Tuesday, the 9-year-old scoped out his favorite player, Charlie Blackmon, as hordes of fans had already gathered along the outfield lines and in the left-field bleachers, camping out for a ball.

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Sherred has received a couple of balls, but he has never caught a foul ball or a home run. He knows the competition — both man and child alike — makes it tough to do so.

“Catching a ball would be at the top of the list,” Sherred said. “But I’d definitely need to use my mitt.”

Footnotes. Story reacted to being named the Rockies’ 2018 selection for the Hustle & Heart Award, noting “those are the things that I pride myself on, and I know it’s a big deal to win this award.” … The shortstop also talked about the journal he has kept over the course of his professional career that has helped him stabilize at the plate this season as a first-time all- star. “It’s important to write down the stuff I’m feeling when I’m going bad, and also when it’s going good. It’s just little things to look back on. This game’s hard, and you’re not always going to be doing great, so I just write things down to let myself come back to that if I’m not feeling good.” … The Rockies made a bullpen move ahead of Tuesday’s game, reinstating southpaw Harrison Musgrave (4.76 ERA) from the disabled list. With the move, fellow left-hander Chris

Rusin (6.81) was sent to the 10-day disabled list with left plantar fasciitis… Right-handed starter German Marquez, on paternity leave in Venezuela, welcomed his son into the world on Tuesday, as announced via his Instagram.

Looking ahead

Astros RHP Charlie Morton (11-2, 2.96 ERA) at Rockies RHP (8-7, 5.44), 6:40 p.m., ATTRM; 850 AM

Amid the best season of his veteran career — and coming off his first all-star appearance — Morton faces a Colorado lineup that’s chewed him up in the past, hitting a collective .301 (25-for-83) with three homers against the right-hander.

That doesn’t include the bomb Trevor Story hit off him during the recent All-Star Game, and Morton owns a 7.84 ERA in his previous two starts at Coors Field. Meanwhile, Gray looks to carry over the momentum from his July 14 start in

Seattle, his first outing since being recalled from Triple-A, in which he allowed just one run over 7.1 innings. The Astros have seen little of Gray, with only eight total at-bats against him.

Thursday: Off day

Friday: Athletics LHP (9-6, 3.38 ERA) at Rockies LHP Kyle Freeland (8-6, 3.28), 6:40 p.m., ATTRM

Saturday: Athletics LHP Brett Anderson (1-2, 6.08) at Rockies RHP (3-3, 5.55), 6:10 p.m., ATTRM

Sunday: Athletics RHP Frankie Montas (5-2, 3.35) at Rockies RHP German Marquez (8-8, 5.00), 1:10 p.m. ATTRM

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Kiszla: Will football-loving Denver ever ache to win the World Series the way Nolan Arenado does? Every game counts way more to Arenado than it does to the patrons at Coors Field By MARK KISZLA | [email protected] | The Denver Post PUBLISHED: July 24, 2018 at 9:17 pm | UPDATED: July 25, 2018 at 8:57 am

We would all like to see the Rockies win the World Series. But do you want it as badly as Nolan Arenado? Does anybody?

Here’s what makes me wonder how long Denver can keep the most talented player in franchise history: Will this football town ever love baseball half as much as Arenado does?

“I want to win. And I don’t want to be part of a losing team,” Arenado said Tuesday, when reigning champion Houston came to Denver. The Astros own what Arenado wants: real big rings.

In all his 27 years on earth, know the most intense and passionate 3 hours and 54 minutes of Arenado’s baseball life? It was a game he lost 11-8 to Arizona on Oct. 4, 2017. But those 3 hours and 54 minutes were more precious to Arenado than any of his five Gold Gloves or 173 home runs in the major leagues.

“It was the best experience of my life,” said Arenado, even if his playoff experience was painfully short.

“Like four hours,” he said.

But those 3 hours and 54 minutes of playoff baseball changed Arenado forever.

“When you lose for a long time, it kind of just wears you down. But once you get that little taste of winning, like we did last year, it changed my game and it changed my life, in a way, as a baseball player,” Arenado said. “Just having that one taste of the playoffs, you want it again. … You have had that one, little taste of October, and I just want it again and again.”

Don’t get it twisted. When Arenado voiced his frustration during the darkest days of the June swoon, it wasn’t intended as a warning he was already looking to leave Colorado as a free agent in 2019, or even a calculated attempt at leadership by giving slumping teammates a swift kick in the pants.

It was just Nolan being Nolan.

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“It was just frustration. I hate losing,” Arenado said. “People were saying, ‘It’s early, it’s early’ and I hate hearing that.

That’s not baseball. Every game counts.”

Every game counts way more to Arenado than it does to the patrons at Coors Field.

“Winning should always be the No. 1 priority in this clubhouse, and if you’re not doing enough to win, we’ve got to make a change,” Arenado said.

Some baseball diehards in Colorado take offense to my long-held belief our boys of summer are viewed as a nice, little way to kill time between the Super Bowl and the first whistle of Broncos training camp. But it’s true the local major-league team has never felt much civic pressure to be great.

That’s not criticism pointed at more than 40,000 spectators who watched the Rockies play the defending world champs, although there was so much orange worn in the stands I thought perhaps the Broncos were holding a workout in LoDo, until I noticed the names on the back on all those orange shirts were Verlander and Altuve rather than Keenum and Miller.

This was a night when everyone was reminded how a real baseball game, with the ballpark buzzing and pitchers dealing, can be so much more compelling theater than a football practice in July. The drama built until it cracked wide open with a wild-and-crazy 10th inning, when the Astros scored six times to win 8-2.

But the real opportunity was lost for Colorado in the bottom of the eighth, when the Rockies had a chance to push across the go-ahead run, but situational hitting failed them. When Arenado popped out to end the inning, stranding a runner on third base, he slammed his batting helmet so hard on the ground I thought it might break. The ground, not the helmet.

That’s how much he cares.

When Peyton Manning had a chance to be a free agent, he didn’t go to Arizona or even back home to Tennessee, in no small part because a winning NFL team isn’t as important in those fine places as it is in Colorado.

And in one important regard, Arenado is very much like Manning. Playoff hunger? It’s insatiable.

“It tasted way better than I thought,” Arenado said.

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The Los Angeles Dodgers traded for all-star Manny Machado. Will the Rockies be willing to make a truly meaningful move at the trade deadline, one that shows Arenado they’re truly serious about winning the World Series?

He loves this stuff with all his heart. Arenado lives for October baseball dreams.

Be honest, Colorado: Do you?

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Astros erupt for 6 runs in 10th, beat Rockies 8-2 By PAT GRAHAM – ASSOCIATED PRESS

DENVER (AP) — The debated whether to have Tony Kemp bunt or swing away in a pressure-packed situation.

Swing away won out. It ignited quite a rally.

Kemp lined a go-ahead single off closer Wade Davis as part of a six-run 10th inning and the Astros beat the Colorado

Rockies 8-2 on Tuesday night.

“He’s a good bunter but he’s a really good hitter, so we told him hit the ball to the outfield,” Astros manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s a good listener.”

Kemp’s one-out hit brought in Josh Reddick, who led off the inning with a single to center that Charlie Blackmon misplayed and had bounce by him for his first error of the season. A hustling Reddick wound up on third and set the stage.

“I went up to the plate and (Hinch) just said, ’Hey, you’re a good hitter,’” Kemp recounted. “That’s all I needed to hear right there.”

Davis (0-3) later surrendered a two-run triple to pinch-hitter Kyle Tucker and a two-run homer to George Springer as the

Astros beat the Rockies for the seventh straight time in a streak that dates to 2013. Davis was charged with five runs. It’s the most runs he’s allowed as a reliever.

“Hung a ” to Kemp, Davis explained. “It wasn’t pretty after that.”

The six runs allowed in the 10th are the second-most allowed in extra innings in Rockies franchise history.

Yuli Gurriel added an RBI single during an inning in which Houston had seven hits.

Hector Rondon (2-2) pitched a clean ninth to earn the win, with Brad Peacock finishing the 10th.

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The Rockies trailed 2-0 going into the seventh and had two hits off starter Gerrit Cole before solving the All-Star right- hander. Nolan Arenado led off with a double and Carlos Gonzalez brought him in with another double. Gerardo Parra tied the game on a single to right-center. That was it for Cole, who was replaced by reliever Collin McHugh. He ended the jam by getting Garrett Hampson to line into a double play.

Alex Bregman provided the offense in the opening inning with his 21st homer. And while technically it was his first homer since July 13, the third baseman did hit one out in the 10th inning of the All-Star Game last week, which helped send the

AL to the win and led to Bregman picking up MVP honors.

Bregman’s liner to left came after Springer reached on an error by All-Star shortstop Trevor Story to begin a game that was delayed an hour by weather.

“Our defense has been one of our strengths all season,” Rockies manager Bud Black said. “Tonight, there were a couple of mishaps. That’s part of the human element of this game.”

Cole pitched masterfully into the seventh before running out of steam. He struck out nine.

TRAINER’S ROOM

Astros: SS Carlos Correa (back) is hitting off a tee, doing some running, playing catch and asking to take grounders. “It’s another good step forward,” Hinch said. ... C Brian McCann (knee) has been doing more cardio work, but not “doing anything on the field,” Hinch said. “He’s working hard and making progress.”

Rockies: RHP Chad Bettis (blister) will soon throw a bullpen session. He left a rehab start over the weekend after 70 pitches with a blister issue. ... LHP Chris Rusin was placed on the DL with left plantar fasciitis.

QUITE A MOVE

Left hander Tyler Anderson’s pickoff move bailed him out of several tight spots. He froze Jose Altuve, who didn’t even try to scramble back to first, and also got a diving Reddick.

CATCH AND RELEASE

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There’s nothing fishy about this: Blackmon, Chris Iannetta and several other Rockies players spent Monday’s time off reeling in trout.

“Being in the mountains in Colorado by the side of a river with the water rushing by you and being able to fish, pretty good off day for me,” Iannetta said.

The catch of the day belonged to lefty .

“Sam caught a monster,” said Iannetta, who left the game in the eighth after being hit by a pitch on his right arm. “The thing looks like a mutant. Definitely fun to see him hook something that big.”

UP NEXT

Astros: RHP Charlie Morton (11-2, 2.96 ERA) makes his ninth career start against Colorado on Wednesday. He’s 2-2 with a 4.53 ERA versus the Rockies.

Rockies: RHP Jon Gray (8-7, 5.44) allowed one run over 7 1/3 innings against Seattle on July 14 in his return to the rotation. Gray, the team’s starter who was sent to Triple-A Albuquerque to hone his mechanics, has never started against Houston.

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Errors doom Rockies, Astros pull away in extras By Drew Creasman - Posted on July 24, 2018 | BSN Denver

The Colorado Rockies and Houston Astros battled in a closely contested ballgame for most of Tuesday night at Coors

Field after about an hour-long rain delay. The clubs looked on an even playing field and the late-game momentum was even with the home team, but a few key errors on defense and an imposion from their closer saw the Rockies force the game to extra then lose, bafflingly, by a score of 8-2 in the 10th.

Early one, the battle of Tyler Anderson and Gerrit Cole took center stage.

Both starting pitchers were excellent but further proof that it’s more in how you end than how you start in this game.

The Astros pounced on Anderson in the first, taking advantage of a rare Trevor Story fielding error in the first at-bat of the game. Alex Bregman followed with what turned out to be one of only three hits against the Rockies lefty in the game, but it was a huge one, launching a no-doubt two-run home run to left, giving Houston the early lead.

It was the All-Star Game MVP’s 21st home run of the season.

The Rockies didn’t get their first hit against Cole until Ian Desmond singled up the middle in the fourth. He moved to second on an Arenado groundout and over to third on a ball in the dirt but was stranded there when Carlos Gonzalez struck out.

Colorado’s second hit came with two outs in the sixth when Charlie Blackmon came just a few feet short of a home run, doubling instead off the high scoreboard in right. Desmond hit a hard line drive in the ensuing at-bat but it was right at right-fielder Josh Reddick.

But the strategy that has paid off recently against the likes of and James Paxton showed up again in the seventh as Cole appeared to be tiring. Nolan Arenado greeted him with a leadoff double into the opposite-field gap.

Then CarGo, after ripping a third-deck shot that landed foul, lined one into that same gap for a double of his own, scoring

Arenado.

Trevor Story followed with almost the exact same kind of line-drive out Desmond had to end the prior inning but Gerardo

Parra was able to pick up the big hit by singling to shallow right, tying the game at two runs apiece.

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In a play that almost worked wonders but instead fell on its face, Parra took off for second and rookie Garrett Hampson hit a sinking liner to center but George Springer was able to reel it in and turn it into an inning-ending double play.

Anderson stayed on to record the first out of the top of the eighth, giving way to Adam Ottavino. After that tough first inning, he lasted longer than his counterpart.

Otto struck out the two batters he faced to complete the eighth.

Colorado had a chance to take advantage of a few mistakes in the bottom of eighth against reliever Joe Smith but had real trouble picking up the baseball from his sidearm delivery.

The inning opened when he plunked Chris Iannetta on a 1-2 pitch, prompting Bud Black to go to pinch-hitter Raimel

Tapia.

After a few unsuccessful attempts to get the bunt down, Tapia swung through strike three on a fastball right down the middle. Blackmon then followed by striking out on three pitches but Desmond was able to reach after first baseman Yasiel

Gurriel couldn’t handle a hard-hit grounder, allowing pinch-runner Noel Cuevas to reach third.

Arenado had his chance with runners at first-and-third in the tie game but had only a moderately better time handling

Smith, popping out into the foul territory behind first base.

Wade Davis pitched a clean ninth but the Rockies went quietly in the bottom half, setting the stage for extra innings.

The Astros didn’t wait to apply pressure, getting a line drive single to center that turned into a nightmare for Blackmon when it skipped by him, allowing Reddick to reach third with nobody out.

The Rockies brought the infield in and the Astros countered by trying to get Marwin Gonzalez to lay down a bunt. He ended up striking out in the attempt. Davis then worked around Max Stassi, getting the count to 2-2 but walking him in the hunt for the .

That did set up a potential double play but Tony Kemp was able to loft a soft single over the infield to score the go-ahead run. On the first pitch of the next at-bat, pinch-hitter Kyle Tucker hit a high line drive just over the head of Gonzalez in right, scoring another of runs.

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Things then really spiraled away from the Rockies when Springer smashed a homer just over the wall in left to give the

Astros a rather sudden 7-2 lead. And it wasn’t over.

Yency Almonte replaced Davis and was greeted by a line drive single from Bregman and a pair of single up the middle just out of the reach of a diving Hampson from both Altuve and Gurriel to score one more. Almonte was finally able to get

Reddick to ground into the double play.

Colorado falls to 53-47 and are now three games back of first place in the NL West.

FINAL STATS:

Tyler Anderson: 7.1 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 4 K

Adam Ottavino: 0.2 IP, 0 H, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 K

Wade Davis: 1.1 IP, 4 H, 5 ER, 1 BB, 1 K

Yency Almonte: 0.2 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 0 K

Carlos Gonzalez: 1-for-3, 1 R, 1 RBI

Gerardo Parra: 1-for-3, 1 RBI

Nolan Arenado: 1-for-3, 1 R

WHAT’S NEXT:

The second of two games between these two teams take place on Wednesday evening at Coors Field. Jon Gray will face off against Charlie Morton. First pitch at 6:40 Mountain Time.

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Rockies In Position to Decide Own Fate in Post-Season Battle TRACY RINGOLSBY - JULY 24, 2018 | InsideTheSeams.com

The Rockies have 63 games remaining in the regular season.

Thanks to a recent surge that means they are in good shape in their bid to claim back-to-back post-season opportunities for the first time in franchise history.

They are two games back in the wild-card race. They are 2 1/2 back of the NL West-leading Dodgers, and just a game behind the Diamondbacks for second place in the division.

And the schedule is on the Rockies' side. The Rockies have nine remaining with the NL West-leading Dodgers

(three at home and six at Dodger Stadium), and seven games left with the Diamondbacks (four at Coors Field and three in Arizona), who have a one-game lead on the Rockies in the NL West, and are in third place in the wild-card race. The Rockies are fourth.

The Rockies also still have three games against the Brewers in Milwaukee (Aug. 3-5), and the final week of the regular-season host the Phillies for four games. The Rockies are in fourth place in the wild-card battle, but just 2

1/2 games behind he Brewers, two back of the Phillies and the one game behind the Diamondbacks.

POSITION TO MAKE A RUN AT OCTOBER

NL Wild Card W L Pct GB Brewers 57 45 0.559 Phillies 55 44 0.556 - D-Backs 55 46 0.545 1 Rockies 53 46 0.535 2 Pirates 52 49 0.515 4 Giants 51 50 0.505 5 Cardinals 50 50 0.5 5.5 Nationals 49 50 0.495 6 Reds 44 56 0.44 11.5 Marlins 43 59 0.422 13.5 Mets 40 57 0.412 14 Padres 42 61 0.408 15 ------NL West W L Pct GB Dodgers 56 44 0.56 - 30

NL Wild Card W L Pct GB D-Backs 55 46 0.545 1.5 Rockies 53 46 0.535 2.5 Giants 51 50 0.505 5.5 Padres 42 61 0.408 15.5 The key is apparent -- the pitching staff. It was a struggle on the mound that was the primary culprit during the

Rockies' June swoon. The Rockies have had a losing record in two months -- 1-2 in March, when they opened with three games in Arizona, and then 11-16 in June. And what did those two months have in common?

In the brief sample of March the Rockies had a 6.48 ERA. In the June struggle the Rockies had a 6.20 ERA. The

Rockies have had an ERA below 4.50 in every other month.

In April, May and July, in which the Rockies are a combined 41-28 going into Tuesday's game against the Astros, the team ERA is 4.10 -- more than two runs lower than March and June combined.

THE ARMS RACE

Team W L Pct SvOP IP HR BB SO ERA March 1 2 0.333 1-1 25 1 16 28 6.48 April 14 13 0.519 9-14 238 28 91 228 4.35 May 15 11 0.577 9-13 234 32 78 207 4.27 June 11 16 0.407 7-13 241 41 107 247 6.2 July 12 4 0.75 6-8 141 9 51 125 3.38 Total 53 46 0.535 32-49 879 111 343 835 4.73 By contrast, the Rockies hit a combined .270 between those three games in March and the 27 games in June.

That's 13 points higher than the season average. The Rockies .272 average in June alone is the second highest of any month to the .288 the Rockies have hit so far in July

THE SWING OF THINGS

Monthly G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB AVG OPS March 3 102 12 25 2 0 7 12 7 34 2-2 0.245 0.764 April 27 876 103 193 36 5 27 98 95 243 16-23 0.22 0.666 May 26 900 120 232 39 8 34 115 85 219 18-20 0.258 0.757 June 27 940 153 256 56 5 36 148 71 237 6-16 0.272 0.785 July 16 553 97 159 31 7 25 92 48 117 11-13 0.288 0.85 Total 99 3371 485 865 164 25 129 465 306 850 53-74 0.257 0.757

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Interleague play doesn't figure to have a major impact, although the Diamondbacks are 4-4 against the AL teams this year, and they do have 12 games remaining against AL West teamS, the most of any team in the NL West.

INTER-LEAGUE INTRIGUE

Dodgers (6-4) Remaining vs. Hou Aug. 3-4-5 at Oak Aug. 7-8 at Sea Aug. 17-18-19 at Tex Aug. 28-29

Diamondbacks (4-4) vs. Tex July 30-31 at Tex Aug. 13-14 vs. LAA Aug. 21-22 vs. Sea Aug. 24-25-26 at Hou Sept. 14-15-16

Rockies (7-4) vs. Hou, Tues, Wed vs. Oak, Fri, Sat, Sun at Hou, Aug. 14-15 at LAA Aug. 27-28

Giants (5-8) at Sea, Tues, Wed vs. Hou Aug. 6-7 vs. Tex Aug. 24-25-26

Padres (2-8) vs.LAA Aug. 13-14-15 vs. Sea Aug. 28-29 at Sea Sept. 11-12 vs. Tex Sept. 14-15-16

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Tuesday By Comparison: Keep It Close, Rockies Have Edge TRACY RINGOLSBY - JULY 24, 2018 | InsideTheSeams.com

The Rockies have enjoyed success in one-run games. They have the second best winning percentage among NL teams in games decided by one run. Tyler Anderson leads Rockies starting pitchers, having made six starts decided by one run. He is 1-0 with five no-decisions. leads the team with a win in four of his five appearances in games decided by one run.

SLIMMEST OF MARGINS

Team W L Pct SvOP ERA Player W L SvOP G ERA Phillies 20 9 0.69 15-22 3.38 Tyler Anderson 1 0 0 6 4.13 Rockies 15 9 0.625 12-20 4.42 German Marquez 2 0 0 4 3.13 Braves 13 8 0.619 8-11 3.47 Scott Oberg 4 0 0-1 5 1.59 Brewers 21 15 0.583 13-23 3.4 Bryan Shaw 2 0 0-1 16 2.93 Pirates 16 12 0.571 12-15 2.82 Adam Ottavino 3 1 2-4 16 2.12 Padres 12 10 0.545 9-14 2.42 Kyle Freeland 1 1 0 5 2.93 Dodgers 15 13 0.536 13-22 2.98 Antonio Senzatela 1 1 0 4 2.35 Marlins 13 12 0.52 7-14 3.05 Jon Gray 1 2 0 5 8.65 Giants 17 18 0.486 10-24 3.02 Wade Davis 0 1 10-13 14 5.4 Cardinals 13 14 0.481 7-18 3.16 Jake McGee 0 1 0 13 4.26 D-Backs 14 16 0.467 11-19 3.13 Harrison Musgrave 0 1 0 2 4.5 Cubs 11 16 0.407 9-14 2.75 Chris Rusin 0 1 0-1 8 9.45 Nationals 10 16 0.385 7-12 3.31 Chad Bettis 0 0 0 4 5.87 Reds 8 16 0.333 5-13 4.09 Mike Dunn 0 0 0 4 0 Mets 9 18 0.333 5-14 3.84 The Rockies go into Tuesday's game with the Astros with a 53-46 record, equaling the third-best start in franchise history.

99 GAMES DOWN, 63 TO GO

Year W L W-L% RS RA Rdiff Twl Rank Postseason 2017 57 42 0.576 527 479 48 87-75 3 Wildcard 2009 54 45 0.545 499 442 57 92-70 2 Wildcard 1995 53 46 0.535 545 527 18 77-67 2 Wildcard 2018 53 46 0.535 485 489 -4 TBD TBD TBD 1996 52 47 0.525 600 602 -2 83-79 3 2010 51 48 0.515 465 438 27 83-79 3

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At least 4 teams checking in on Reds' relievers In addition to late-inning arms, Harvey drawing interest from contenders By Jon Paul Morosi MLB.com @jonmorosi Jul. 24th, 2018

The Orioles are perceived as controlling the market for late-inning relievers, because Zach Britton is drawing widespread interest across the industry. Based on volume, however, the Reds are the most influential bullpen seller of all.

Sources say the Rockies, Red Sox, Braves and Phillies are among the teams that have checked with the Reds on a late- inning bullpen group that includes Raisel Iglesias, Amir Garrett, David Hernandez and Jared Hughes.

Among that group, one source said Cincinnati has no plans to move Garrett, but the other three are available.

The Reds have the luxury of maintaining high asking prices on their relievers, because each is under control beyond this year. Iglesias, Cincinnati's closer and most coveted reliever, can't become a free agent until after the 2021 season.

Garrett, in his first season as a reliever, is under control for five seasons beyond the current one.

Meanwhile, the Reds wisely signed Hernandez and Hughes to two-year free-agent contracts last offseason. They have responded with ERAs below 2.00 this season: Hughes at 1.56; Hernandez at 1.75.. 1st, 2018

The Reds also could obtain a prospect for Matt Harvey, who has re-established his value since arriving in a trade with the

Mets. As MLB.com's Mark Feinsand mentioned earlier Tuesday, the Brewers have checked in regarding Harvey.

Milwaukee does not appear to be engaged in active trade talks with Cincinnati about Harvey. Rather, the Brewers view

Harvey as a fallback option if other rotation pursuits are unsuccessful.

Finally, one source said the Reds haven't made right-handed starter Luis Castillo available via trade. Castillo's value is down slightly from a sensational rookie season in 2017, and there's little urgency to trade him, anyway. Between Harvey and its relievers, Cincinnati will be busy enough over the next week.

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Colorado Rockies: There are seven starters but not seven spots by Jake Shapiro - 2 hours ago | RoxPile

DENVER – Sports are funny because, no matter how good or bad you are, you always have a problem. There are problems like being bad and not having a single decent player. There are problems that even the reigning World

Series Champion Houston Astros, who are in Denver to face the Colorado Rockies this week, have … not having a closer.

Obviously these problems are not good … for the Colorado Rockies or any other team.

There’s an old saying in football: When you have two quarterbacks, you have none.

But there are good problems too … yet somehow they are still problems. The Rockies have a problem. It’s a good problem, but still a problem. They have too many capable pitchers and not enough spots for them. To be exact, the

Rockies have seven solid pitchers and only five spots to utilize them.

It’s key to note that the Colorado Rockies have only used eight starting pitchers, dating all the way back to mid-September of 2016 when Jorge De La Rosa was moved to the bullpen. That’s how familiar these faces are to Rockies fans. In fact, there’s only one of those starters the Rockies can’t use … and that’s current Chicago Cub Tyler Chatwood.

The eight used in that period is by far the least amount used in baseball, which is a very nice thing the Rockies have had going for them.

So when Chad Bettis returns to health and German Marquez returns from paternity leave (scheduled to start on

Sunday), the Rockies are going to have to make some decisions.

Outside Looking In

Jeff Hoffman

There’s only one of the seven possible guys who clearly will not make the rotation when the Rockies move back to five.

Hoffman has started 23 games in the majors and is currently in Triple-A. The time is approaching for the 26-year-old where the Rockies may look to him more as a reliever long-term. Five of the six MLB appearances in 2018 for the once-

Rockies top pitching prospect have been as a reliever. Every single one of his minor league games this season has seen the righty work as a starter. 35

Up In The Air

Jon Gray

The once and most likely future ace of the Colorado Rockies staff will make his first start of the second half on

Wednesday … and his second since his short minor league demotion. He is 8-7 with a 5.44 ERA in just under 100 innings with slick strikeout and walk ratios.

His return to the majors saw a solid performance where he worked into the seventh inning and the Rockies offense clicked to give the Colorado club a win against Seattle on July 14.

Gray is poised to have a huge second half and makes sense to be in the rotation. Meanwhile, there is less faith in him currently than there is any of the other six guys, which juxtaposes his position quite awkwardly.

Antonio Senzatela

“Senza” has made three starts this season and none of them have been particularly impressive. Overall, he’s worked better as a reliever and he figures as the best option as a long-man for the Rockies. With the injuries and inconsistencies of Chris Rusin in 2018, the Rockies badly need somebody at the front end of their bullpen.

German Marquez

He’s 8-8 with a 5.00 ERA and he’s pitched exactly like that. Sometimes he’s been really good. Other times he’s been very okay. He’s never been bad but he hasn’t been as consistently impressive as many would have hoped. He will stay in the rotation and should … but his performance the past month or so has decreased.

Chad Bettis

Bettis has been a stopper and has been very steady for the Rockies all year. Some of his numbers aren’t impressive and he has had starts where it has gone poorly for the Rockies. However, more times than not, he’s been good and helpful.

Bettis has the least talent out of any of these seven guys and you might think he would profile better out of the bullpen.

That is not true. In 29 appearances out of the bullpen, he has a 9.09 ERA. Not being over-dramatic, but he could be the worst reliever in franchise history. Over the course of two seasons, he soured so poorly and he came back so strong as a starter that I doubt the Rockies would even try this idea again.

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Firmly In The Rotation

Tyler Anderson

When healthy, he’s been good. That’s been the rule with Tyler Anderson for his entire professional career. You probably haven’t even realized that he has a sub 4.00 ERA … but he does. Over his near-115 innings this season (and if you count the parts of 2016 and 2017 he spent in the Majors), he has been one of the best young starters in the history of the franchise, particularly when it comes to his dealings at Coors Field.

Kyle Freeland

His last handful of starts haven’t been as promising and they still haven’t hurt his club which in a way says it all about

Freeland.

We’re Kyle Freeland Guys over here and it’s for good reason. The Denver kid has been nothing short of phenomenal in his sophomore campaign. His 3.28 ERA, 8-6 record and 120 innings pitched all pace the club. His energy has carried the club through their most torrid and current stretches. Put it simply, Freeland has turned into the heartbeat of the club … but not quite its ace. At least not yet.

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Colorado Rockies: Trade targets if they were to be buyers by Olivia Greene | RoxPile

The trade deadline is slowly approaching and we are just now seeing teams really pick up the pace with making trades. The biggest blockbuster thus far has been Manny Machado being dealt to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

However, so far, the Colorado Rockies have been quiet.

With the Colorado Rockies still in the hunt for a playoff berth, it’s time to look over who they could possibly target if they were to be buyers at the deadline.

J.T. Realmuto

J.T. Realmuto is a serious possible trade target for a team like the Colorado Rockies. With the way Bud Black continues to rotate the three catchers he has on the 25-man roster, one is to believe he doesn’t have faith in just one to start every day. Realmuto would be a solid alternative since he’s only 27 and the Rockies would have control over him until 2021, leaving his salary to not be a bank-breaker.

He’s having a good season with the with a slash line of .313/.367/.540 along with 12 home runs and 45

RBI. He’s played in 70 games thus far with no errors this season. He’s been fairly consistent, comparing his past few seasons with the Marlins. Consistency is, of course, something the Rockies need, but with the solid numbers Realmuto puts up every year. Playing good ball this year got him to his first-ever All-Star game and he’ll most likely stay on that path.

The Miami Marlins are obviously entering an era of rebuilding and most likely want to rebuild around a young core of prospects with potential. Due to this, guys like J.T. Realmuto will likely be traded to teams that are trying to contend. They already had a serious fire sale in the offseason when Derek Jeter took over the team. Because of that, they’ve been getting prospects in return for big-name stars like Christian Yelich, Giancarlo Stanton, Marcell Ozuna, and Dee

Gordon. The Colorado Rockies would mostly have to give up some prospects. However their farm system is ripe with tons of potential that a trade like this wouldn’t damage too much.

Though, like most trades, we all begin to wonder would this trade really be worth it? Yes, the Rockies don’t have a solid everyday starting catcher. Chris Iannetta is mediocre at best while Tony Wolters still needs development time. With

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those two going back and forth, Tom Murphy isn’t going to see as much time as we’d all like to see. J.T. Realmuto is someone who can come in and really help with the offense as a position player.

Two Mets (Pick one)

Here’s the thing about the Mets. With the way the Atlanta Braves and are playing, there is no way that they will reach contention. Right now, they have an overload of starters. Two of them have been top targets since the season has started. The Colorado Rockies do need to find someone who can fill the role of ace because Jon Gray still isn’t cutting it right now.

Jacob deGrom or Noah Syndergaard

There is a slim to none chance that this could happen. This is only because of the fact that rumors are looming that deGrom wants to go long-term with the Mets. However, the Mets may not be feeling the same way because of the payout that he’ll most likely want. Whoever gets deGrom (if he were to be traded) will have control over him until 2021.

He’s the perfect ace material pitcher a team like the Rockies need. deGrom is a two-time All-Star and is definitely showing that he’s got more in the tank. His pitching WAR is higher than any

Rockies pitcher this season at 6.0. deGrom has been incredible this season despite not getting anything back from his team. He currently has a 1.68 ERA (pitching in 123.1 innings) along with 149 strikeouts. The crazy thing is we’ve only just started the second half of the season.

With the stats he is showing now, think about what he could do this half if he were with the Rockies. deGrom is easily a Cy Young candidate this season and could dominate the NL West as a Rockie.

Once again, here’s a total stretch, but it could be an idea in the making. Noah Syndergaard is another starter that is true ace material for the Colorado Rockies. If a trade were to happen, the Rockies would once again most likely have to give up a bundle of prospects in order to even capture the Mets’ attention.

Syndergaard is another ripe for the picking starter within the Mets organization. Like deGrom, Syndergaard was having a great year before his latest odd injury. He currently has a 6-1 record with a 2.89 ERA and 83 strikeouts in 74.2 innings so far. Over his past four years with the Mets, he’s been a force to be reckoned with and it appears that 2018 will be business as usual for him.

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Syndergaard is second in command behind deGrom, but clearly ace material for a team that desperately needs a solid starter aka the Colorado Rockies.

Blake Snell

The choices are a bit out of this world right now, especially with interest from other teams. So in order to balance out the trade targets, it’s imperative to add more realistic trade partners when looking for pitchers. The Tampa

Bay Rays are yet another team in a rebuilding era and it’s high time that teams such as the Rockies think about becoming trade partners. is having a great season despite being on a team that’s struggling. He currently has an ERA of 2.27 in 119 innings pitched, while he’s racked up 134 strikeouts. It’s been such a good year for him that he made the

All-Star team for the first time in just three years of pitching. At 25, he’s on his way to becoming a top-tier pitcher … but only if with the right team. If the Rockies were to deal for him, they’d have control over him until 2023.

Two Angels (Pick One…again)

The Angels have been flirting with contention on and off for the past two months. However, as of now, it doesn’t appear likely they will contend this season. With the pitching rotation most likely getting ready for an upgrade, there are a few guys in the rotation who are great trade targets.

Andrew Heaney or Tyler Skaggs

Andrew Heaney is having a great season compared to his past two with the Angels. He has a 3.78 ERA while pitching in

102.1 innings. Along with that, he’s whiffed 102 batters while only walking 30. On the Angels depth chart, Heaney is listed as their first pitcher in the rotation. Heaney is still only at a six-figure salary and the Rockies would have control over him until 2021.

Left-handed pitcher Tyler Skaggs is the number two guy on the Angels rotation. If the Rox were to trade for him, they would have control until 2020.

Skaggs is having his best year yet with a 2.68 ERA in just 104 innings pitched along with 106 strikeouts. At only 26, he’d fit in perfectly with the age group the Rockies currently have on the pitching staff. Skaggs shows true potential and would be a solid left-hander to have on the team. The Angels would most likely want some youngsters in exchange for him as well.

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Astros bust out for six runs in extras, win 8-2 over Rockies By Aniello Piro - July 24, 2018 | Mile High Sports

The Colorado Rockies lost to the defending champion Houston Astros Tuesday night in extra innings, 8-2.

The defending champions struck first as they scored two runs off of Rockies’ starting pitcher Tyler Anderson in the first inning. George Springer reached base safely to open the game following a throwing error committed by Rockies’ All-Star shortstop Trevor Story.

From there, Alex Bregman took Anderson deep to left field, blasting a two-run home run to make the score 2-0.

Outside of the mishaps in the first inning, Anderson buckled down throughout his start. Anderson has struggled all season in first innings’ as he owns an ERA over seven in the first frame. Anderson’s ERA in the second inning is a dominant figure of 0.93. with the his next highest ERA in a single inning being the fourth, which sits at 4.00.

Astros’ starting pitcher Gerrit Cole managed to keep Colorado’s offense in check for a majority of his time on the mound as his first six innings were scoreless. The Rockies were able to break through in the seventh inning which started with a double from Nolan Arenado hit to deep center field.

Carlos Gonzalez then followed with a double of his own to center field which scored Arenado and put the Rockies on the scoreboard. After a Trevor Story line out, outfielder Gerardo Parra hit a single to right field, which scored Gonzalez to tie the game at a pair of runs apiece.

The Rockies had a golden opportunity in the bottom of the eighth inning to take the lead when they had two runners on base, one of which was in scoring position, and Arenado at the plate. Arenado quickly fell behind 0-2 and eventually, hit a weak fly ball in foul territory for the third out of the inning to end Colorado’s rally. Both teams were unable to plate the go- ahead run within nine innings which sent the game to extra innings where the Astros quickly busted the game open.

Josh Reddick started the 10th inning by hitting a single to center field that Charlie Blackmonmishandled, allowing Reddick to advance to third base. Tony Kemp later hit an RBI-single to center field, scoring Reddick to push Houston ahead, 3-2.

After that, the Astros proceeded to pile on the runs, starting with RBI triple hit by Kyle Tucker that scored a pair to extend the Astros’ lead to 5-2. George Springer then followed with a two-run home run to left field. Yuli Gurriel put the icing on the cake by poking a single up the middle to score another Astros’ run, making the score 8-2.

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The Rockies were unable to generate any runs in the bottom of the 10th as they ultimately fell to the defending champs.

The Rockies and Astros will continue their series Wednesday night from Coors Field with first pitch set for 6:40 MST.

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