SBNation.com User Blog: Kyle Domingos

6. D.J. LeMahieu 3B

7. Josh Rutledge 2B

8. Yorvit Torrealba C

9. Juan Nicasio P

Giants

1. Angel Pagan CF

2. Brandon Crawford SS

3. Pablo Sandoval 3B

4. Hunter Pence RF

5. Brandon Belt 1B

6. Gregor Blanco LF

7. Guillermo Quiroz C

8. Nick Noonan 2B

9. Barry Zito P

Go Rockies!

Lineups:

Rockies

1. Eric Young Jr. RF

2. Dexter Fowler CF

6. D.J. LeMahieu 3B

7. Josh Rutledge 2B

8. Yorvit Torrealba C

9. Juan Nicasio P

Giants

1. Angel Pagan CF

2. Brandon Crawford SS

3. Pablo Sandoval 3B

4. Hunter Pence RF

5. Brandon Belt 1B

6. Gregor Blanco LF

7. Guillermo Quiroz C

8. Nick Noonan 2B

9. Barry Zito P

Go Rockies!

Blake Street Stroll: The curious case of Juan Nicasio

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 19 May 2013 14:27:59 -0000

Juan Nicasio, now in his third season in the big leagues has basically acquired a full-season's worth of starts with 32. He offers tantalizingly good stuff and seems to give you just enough to believe that he is turning the corner only to regress in his next outing.

In fairness, Nicasio has youth on his side at age 26 and it's not uncommon for a young starting pitcher to take a bit of time to figure things out. He also has been set back by various injuries and the fact that he is even pitching after breaking his neck is a miracle in and of itself. So, how do we evaluate Nicasio? Do we just need to be patient and trust that he will develop? Does he need a minor league stint? Is he better suited in the pen?

I am of the opinion that Nicasio is best suited as a reliever with his ceiling being either as a setup man or closer. He has an overpowering fastball and a pretty good slider. The problem is he still hasn't developed a third pitch that he can throw with any consistency whatsoever. Nicasio is throwing his fastball 72% of the time, his slider 20%, and his changeup 6%.

Just to give you an idea what that means; Nicasio ranks 3^rd among starting pitchers in FA%. What that means is there are only two starting pitchers in all of baseball that throw their fastballs more often. Those two starters are Tony Cingrani and Shelby Miller. Rockies fans have seen what Shelby Miller can do throwing primarily fastballs, so why can't that work for Nicasio? One reason could be that Miller's second most used pitch is his curveball. A curveball has a far greater velocity difference from a fastball then a fastball to a slider, in Nicasio's case not having a big enough velocity difference allows a hitter to time him better.

There are plenty of big names in the top 25 of starting pitchers that all throw primarily their fastball on average. These names include, Jordan Zimmerman, Lance Lynn, Clayton Kershaw, Matt Harvey, Stephen Strasburg, Max Scherzer, and Brandon Morrow. But, all of those hurlers throw their secondary pitches at least 40% of the time, whether it's a changeup curveball or slider, compared to Nicasio's 30% (I'm doing some rounding here, but the numbers are close). Nicasio's fastball is electric, but without better, and more frequent use of his secondary pitches he will likely continue to struggle as a starter.

Therefore, a move to the pen would be warranted where having a third pitch isn't essential. Starters need more variance in their pitches because the second and third time through a lineup the hitters start timing the hard stuff better. That's where a good secondary pitches keep them off balance. In the bullpen guys are typically only pitching an inning or two and they don't have to worry about a guy being able to time them in their second or third at bat

However, there really isn't room for Nicasio in the bullpen given the outstanding overall performance of the current relievers. In such a case as this, a minor league stint to work on his secondary pitches might not be the worst idea. Pomeranz certainly seems ready to step in and Nicasio hasn't even been in Triple-A before, so, giving him more time to develop down there might not be a bad idea. It seemed to work for Chatwood and it looks like it's working for Pomeranz. The Rockies are going to compete this year and that means they can't afford to let Nicasio work it out at the big league level.

Friday Pebble Report: Pomeranz improves to 6-0 and Tulsa walks off in 15

Kyle Domingos — Fri, 17 May 2013 06:26:22 -0000

Triple-A Colorado Springs - W 5-3 (24-14)

Drew Pomeranz improved to 6-0 and the Sky Sox won, 5-3, on Thursday. Pomeranz worked five innings allowing two runs while striking out seven. Logan Kensing recorded his second save of the year and has not yielded an earned run in 8.2 innings of work.

Corey Dickerson continues to rake, going 2-for-4 and raising his average to a ridiculous .382. Lars Davis added a home run, his second of the year. Tyler Colvin was 0-for-4 and is hitting just .172 over his last ten games.

Double-A Tulsa - W 2-1 (17-22)

Tulsa won a 15-inning pitchers' duel on Thursday night. Angelys Nina had four hits, the last of which was a walk-off single.

Former big-leaguer Sean Gallagher made his first start with Tulsa and pitched admirably, going seven shutout innings and only surrendering two hits. However, he also walked five batters. Six relievers combined to pitch eight innings after Gallagher's exit, allowing just one run -- a game tying double against Mike Marbry in the ninth. Josh Mueller picked up his first win by pitching a perfect top of the 15^th.

Tulsa had 10 hits but eight of them were between two players. The aforementioned Nina and Rafael Ortega both collected four apiece, but the rest of the offense struggled mightily.

Ortega is off to a very slow start, but he now has three multi-hit games in his last five.

High-A Modesto - W 6-5 (18-22)

Modesto held on, 6-5, on Thursday night to pick up their 18^th win of the season. Tyler Gagnon recorded his second win and Trevor Story collected three hits.

Gagnon pitched six innings, allowing three runs -- just one earned -- while striking out four. Kenneth Roberts pitched two innings in relief of Gagnon and Scott Oberg tossed a perfect ninth for his ninth save.

Story's three hits drove in two runs and Juan Crousset also chipped in two hits and two RBIs from the eight-hole.

Low-A Asheville - L 11-4 (22-17)

The Tourists were thumped Thursday night as Ben Hughes struggled and lost his fourth game. Michael Mason was the only pitcher to throw a scoreless inning for Asheville.

Derek Jones slugged two doubles and Julian Yan hit a two-run home run, but it wasn't enough offense to overcome a poor pitching performance.

Rockies 8, Cardinals 2: De La Rosa masterful, offense finally breaks out

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 12 May 2013 20:54:17 -0000

The Rockies finally got enough offense to support the good pitching they have been getting. Troy Tulowitzki launched a three-run HR in the third and it proved to be all the support Jorge De La Rosa, who took a no hitter into the seventh, would need.

De La Rosa was masterful Sunday afternoon, locating his fastball and mixing in an effective slider and splitter all while sprinkling in the occasional curveball. De La Rosa dialed up 94 mph on his fastball several times and was consistently in the 91-93 range, an extremely encouraging sign for Jorge as he seems to have nearly regained his pre-Tommy John surgery form. De La Rosa's final line-seven innings, seven strikeouts, three walks and just two hits.

It wasn't just about De La Rosa though as the offense needed this kind of a game in the worst kind of way. In a severe offensive drought the Rockies finally found an oasis against Jaime Garcia and the Cardinals. Eight runs on 11 hits as well as long balls from Tulo and newly called up Charlie Blackmon were more then enough offense Sunday. Pacheco, CarGo, Arenado, and Blackmon all had multiple hits and Reid Brignac added a pinch-hit two-run double.

Rex Brothers pitched a scoreless eighth and the only rough part of the game was Matt Belisle allowing two ninth inning runs. The Rockies now head to Chicago for a three game set and should have old mo back on their side.

20-17
Games Back: 2
Streak: Won 1
Games Left: 126

Source: FanGraphs

Roll Call Info
Total comments	631
Total commenters	32
Commenter list	BuSeaAir, DAWNMARIE01, Drew Creasman, ES46NE10, Goeldfinger, Jordan Freemyer, Junction Rox, Kevin L,MissR, MohrPlease, Nephelimdream, Nick95, OrangeTorpedo, Paleface Destro, PurpleToPurple,RhodeIslandRoxfan, Rockies7935, Roxman4ever, Rutabaga, SDcat09, Shoemaker, Traindogger,WanderingRoxFan, Yokel, biondino, colorockies, everever, idj2, jlbroxfan, nightninja13, rockiesfan4ever, wolf213
Story URLs	http://www.purplerow.com/2013/5/12/4324092/2013-colorado-rockies-game-no-37-jorge-de-la-rosa-vs-jaime-garcia

#	Commenter	# Comments
1	Roxman4ever	173
2	SDcat09	88
3	Rockies7935	44
4	Nick95	41
5	WanderingRoxFan	39
6	Goeldfinger	37
7	idj2	34
8	Nephelimdream	21
9	everever	17
10	Drew Creasman	17

2013 Colorado Rockies Game No. 37: Jorge De La Rosa vs. Jaime Garcia

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 12 May 2013 16:02:36 -0000

Happy Mother's day to all you wonderful mother's out there and to mine especially!

The Rockies take on the Cardinals this afternoon and face another difficult starting pitcher in Jaime Garcia. The good news? Garcia is 0-2 lifetime against the Rockies with an 11.85 ERA. Hopefully, that coupled with the pink bats and pink stitching on the baseballs will be enough to break the Rockies out of their slump.

A couple lineup notes, Wilin Rosario will be catching De La Rosa for the first time this year and it is no doubt to try and put the best lineup out there possible. Also, Charlie Blackmon will be making his season debut in the eight-hole replacing the recently injured Michael Cuddyer. This is also clearly the A-lineup on a Sunday except for Pacheco at first, so no complaining about poor lineup construction today.

Lineups:

Rockies

1. Dexter Fowler CF

5. Wilin Rosario C

6. Nolan Arenado 3B

7. Josh Rutledge 2B

8. Charlie Blackmon RF

9. Jorge De La Rosa P

Cardinals

1. Matt Carpenter 2B

2. Carlos Beltran RF

3. Matt Holliday LF

4. Allen Craig 1B

5. Yadier Molina C

6. David Freese 3B

7. Jon Jay CF

8. Pete Kozma SS

9. Jaime Garcia P

Happpy Mother's day :) and go Rockies!

Happy Mother's day to all you wonderful mother's out there and to mine especially!

Lineups:

Rockies

1. Dexter Fowler CF

5. Wilin Rosario C

6. Nolan Arenado 3B

7. Josh Rutledge 2B

8. Charlie Blackmon RF

9. Jorge De La Rosa P

Cardinals

1. Matt Carpenter 2B

2. Carlos Beltran RF

3. Matt Holliday LF

4. Allen Craig 1B

5. Yadier Molina C

6. David Freese 3B

7. Jon Jay CF

8. Pete Kozma SS

9. Jaime Garcia P

Happpy Mother's day :) and go Rockies!

Blake Street Stroll: Finding the silver lining in the Rockies difficult stretch

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 12 May 2013 04:50:47 -0000

The Rockies are mired in a slump, the offense can't hit right now, they aren't clutch blah blah blah... The offense will be fine. The lineup is loaded with talent and we have already seen what it can do. The fact that the entire offense seems to be slumping at the same time coupled with facing excellent pitching is what has lead to the recent struggles. Nothing more, nothing less. They will be fine, I almost guarantee it.

There are several reasons to be extremely optimistic going forward. First, the Rockies are still 19-17. If somebody told me at this point in the year that the Rockies would be two games over .500 I probably would have taken it. Now, do I think this team has the potential to be even better? Yes. Why? The pitching staff.

Taking just the nine games from May in which the Rockies are 3-6 the staff has a 3.36 ERA, good for 8th best in all of baseball. They are also doing a good job keeping the ball on the ground and preventing it from flying out of the ball park, as they rank 8th in ground out's recorded with 88 and they have only allowed 6 HRs, so far good for 4th best.

Also encouraging for the staff is they rank near the middle of the pack in WHIP at 1.29 this month. Considering they have played at hitter friendly Coors Field six of the nine games so far that is even more encouraging. Going into May if we knew the pitching would be this good we would probably expect a 6-3 record or better not 3-6.

All this to say that when the offense comes around the Rockies are due for a good winning streak. If the pitching continues at this rate the Rockies will be fine. Is it frustrating to waste good pitching like this? Absolutely, but it's easy to get caught up in what the Rockies have been doing poorly and forget about what they are doing well. Remember the disaster that was 2012 for the pitching staff? Of course you do. The fact that the Rockies are even in these games where the offense has been so bad is a sign of good things to come.

Also, if there is a fear that the pitching will regress (which it likely will), but hopefully the Rockies have enough arms in reserve that can step up if needed. The bullpen is being a bit overworked, but they have pitched so well that it's not the worst problem in the world to have. Tyler Chatwood, Drew Pomeranz, and possibly Roy Oswalt are waiting in the wings to step in and replace some current starters if they can't work deeper into games, so I don't see that being a problem right now. They have even more depth when you consider Chris Volstad, Aaron Cook, and from a relief perspective Rob Scahill.

Unlike last year when the pitching struggled the Rockies seem to have the organizational depth to cover that this year should the need arise again. With that in mind I'm pretty optimistic that the Rockies pitching is going to be very solid going forward and not just an early season mirage. Once the offense gets out of this slump the Rockies should win a lot of ballgames.

Friday Pebble Report: LeMahieu, Parker and Murphy homer; Modesto twirls shutout

Kyle Domingos — Fri, 10 May 2013 06:41:22 -0000

Triple-A Colorado Springs - W 5-1 (19-13)

Chris Volstad pitched five scoreless innings and picked up his first win in Triple-A for the Sky Sox. Volstad, who pitched well in his last start, was helped by 8-to-2 GB/FB ratio Thursday night. He was also aided by two Sky Sox double plays behind him. Nick Schmidt gave up the lone run on the night,surrendering a solo home run to Darnell McDonald.

DJ LeMahieu (a last name that I always have to check my spelling on) swatted his first HR of the year, a solo shot in the third which extended his hitting streak to 18 games. I'm not sure what's left for LeMahieu to earn a promotion. He's hitting .375 on the season, not to mention a .390 road batting average away from hitter-friendly Colorado Springs. Plus, I'm friends with a guy that played high school ball with him. So yeah, call him up please.

Double-A Tulsa - L 7-3 (16-17)

Kyle Parker drilled his seventh dinger of the year, but it was not enough for Tulsa as Arkansas scored all seven of its runs in the sixth inning.

Dan Houston started for Tulsa and fell to 0-3 on the year when he ran into trouble in the seven-run frame. He ended up allowing six runs -- four earned -- in 5.1 innings of work. Parker Frazier worked 2.2 innings behind Houston and surrendered the seventh and final Arkansas run.

High-A Modesto - W 2-0 (15-19)

Harold Riggins homered for the second consecutive game and four Modesto pitchers combined for a three-hit shutout while striking out 11.

Daniel Winkler started off the strong pitching performance, going 5.2 innings allowing just one hit and striking out nine. Winkler improved to 4-1 on the year and lowered his ERA to a meager 2.21. He was followed by Geoff Parker, Leuris Gomez and Scott Oberg, each of whom turned in scoreless work.

Low-A Asheville - L 13-12 (18-14)

The Tourists lost a wild back-and-forth affair Thursday night. Three home runs -- one from Tom Murphy and two from Francisco Sosa -- weren't quite enough as Asheville's pitching faltered.

Murphy was 2-for-4 and clubbed his eighth HR of the year while raising his batting average to a ridiculous .420 to go along with 27 RBIs. Sosa's two homers were his fourth and fifth on the season.

T.J. Oakes started and gave up seven runs in 3.2 innings. Ryan Arrowood followed him and allowed three runs in 3.1 innings. Josh Slaats failed to record an out and surrendered three more runs before Jesse Meaux stopped the bleeding by pitching two scoreless innings.

Blake Street Stroll: Is the Rockies front office serious about contention?

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 05 May 2013 03:36:12 -0000

It's no secret that there are factions of Rockies fans that believe and may always believe that the Rockies front office does not always have winning as their top priority. They question everything from roster moves and coaching decisions to loyalty and willingness to spend big money in free agency. Whether the perception is valid or not is irrelevant to me at this point. I believe that Rockies fans should trust that the organization is clearly trying to win this year.

This off-season was not one in which the Rockies made any significant moves. They acquired Wilton Lopez, Reid Brignac, and Jon Garland (just naming players that are on the club). Moves that showed the confidence the franchise had in the talent that already existed here in Colorado, a smart move in my opinion. As many believed, health was the key for the Rockies going forward and so-far-so-good.

But here's why I believe the Rockies really are trying to win this year from an organizational standpoint. First, was the move to send down Chris Volstad and call up Josh Outman. Volstad wasn't particularly sharp out of the gate so the Rockies quickly brought up Outman who had been pitching very well in the minors. This isn't an alarming move by any stretch, but it showed early in the season that if there are people out preforming you elsewhere in the minors your seat could start to get hot. A healthy fear for less marquee players to have.

Next, was the move to DFA Chris Nelson and bring up Nolan Arenado. The Rockies weren't exactly doing terrible with Nelson and it wasn't a move that necessarily screamed "make this move now or else!" Had the Rockies given Nelson another week or two to regain some traction and he did, I don't know that too many fans would be upset. Sure, Arenado seems to be ready, but giving him another couple weeks in the minors and giving Nelson a little bit longer wouldn't be an unprecedented move by any means. Instead, the Rockies acted and gave manager Walt Weiss what they felt was the best possible lineup by bringing up Arenado. A move that shows a desire to win.

Then we have the low-risk high-reward signing of Roy Oswalt. Oswalt is the type of guy that the Rockies have no business to sign unless they are trying to win and win now. He's 35 years old and signing him is clearly a move that shows the Rockies want to make sure they have MLB ready talent waiting in the wings in case of injury or failure from the big league club. They could have easily relied on the continued development of Drew Pomeranz and Tyler Chatwood or said that they already had an established veteran in Aaron Cook. Signing Oswalt says to me that the Rockies really believe in this team this year.

There are just two moves left out there that I would like to see happen for the Rockies to convince me that they are really trying to put the best possible team on the field. Send down Jonathan Herrera and bring up D.J. LeMahieu, or Tyler Colvin. Another option would be to send down both Herrera and Brignac and bring up LeMahieu and Colvin, however, the Rockies probably don't trust D.J. to play SS in Tulo's absence. Come up with your own scenario here, but I do think somebody from Triple-A, whether it's Colvin, LeMahieu, or Blackmon, deserves to be called up.

The other move I would like to see is to replace either Nicasio or Francis with Pomeranz and/or Chatwood. Nicasio might just need a minor league tune-up, but he needs to find a way to get more length out of his starts. Francis just doesn't have the stuff anymore that makes me believe he can consistently get it done. He can still have his control freak moments where he makes an opposing team look off-balance all night, but I am in favor of potential at this point. Francis is a known commodity that might be serviceable at best right now. Chatwood and Pomeranz could be electric if they continue to figure things out and they provide the Rockies the better option going forward.

Friday Pebble Report: Flashback to 2008 - Aaron Cook in vintage form

Kyle Domingos — Fri, 03 May 2013 04:07:53 -0000

Triple-A Colorado Springs - L 2-1 (14-11)

The Sky Sox lost a pitcher's duel 2-1 Thursday in Salt Lake City. Aaron Cook put in his best performance of the year pitching six strong innings allowing just one run. Cook had a GB/FB ratio of 9/0. Nick Schmidt took the loss giving up a walk-off sacrifice fly in his third inning of work.

The only offensive fire power for the Sky Sox came from a Matt McBride solo shot in the second inning. Other than that blast, Colorado Springs' bats were silent, managing just five other hits, all singles.

Double-A Tulsa - Postponed

High-A Modesto - L 5-4 (9-18)

Modesto lost late Thursday night in 12 innings 5-4.

Chris Jensen pitched 4.1 innings and was tagged for four runs, three earned in the start for the Nuts. Jensen was followed by an excellent relief effort that saw five Modesto pitchers combine for seven innings and allow just one run, albeit an unearned run, that saddled Kraig Sitton with the loss.

Modesto's 2-5 hitters all collected multiple hits on the night and they combined for 10 hits. However, they could not deal the decisive blow. They were lead by Harold Riggins three-run home run in the third, but the bats were mostly quiet after that.

Low-A Asheville - L 6-3 (16-10)

The Tourists lost 6-3 despite outhitting the Hickory Crawdads 10-6. The Crawdads were aided by three Tourists' errors that allowed three unearned runs to score.

Eddie Butler -coming off a brilliant one-hit eight inning performance - took the loss pitching 5.2 innings allowing five runs, two earned. For Butler it was his first loss of the season. On a positive note, Butler struck out eight, a season high for the right-hander.

David Dahl was 1-5 with a double and Tom Murphy was 1-2 with a triple and two walks. Rosell Herrera recorded his 18th RBI and Francisco Sosa his 19th.

Game Wrap: Diamondbacks 4, Rockies 2

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 22:46:02 -0000

Nolan Arenado's debut was nothing to get too excited about for Rockies' fans. Arenado was very sound defensively and at the plate he looked comfortable. However, the Rockies suffered another frustrating loss at the hands of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Arenado ended 0-3 with a walk, but he was robbed of a base hit in the seventh when Gerrardo Parra slid and snared his sinking line drive.

Offensively, the Rockies just couldn't come up with the big hit for the second consecutive night and third time in the series. The Rockies went just 2-9 with RISP and only scored two runs, one scoring as the result of a wild pitch. Tulowitzki was thrown out at the plate in the first inning on a hit that third base coach Stu Cole probably should not have sent him on. Tulowitzki strained his left shoulder on the play when he slid awkwardly into home plate and catcher Miguel Montero.

Eric Young Jr. had three doubles, but came around to score just once. EY Jr. doubled to lead off the game and then tried unsuccessfully to advance to third on a grounder that was hit in front of him. After his second double he was erased on a pick off.

Jon Garland was solid again for the Rockies, but was hurt by a passed ball in the the third inning that allowed Gerardo Parra to move to third. Parra then scored on a wild pitch where Rosario elected to dive for the tag instead of shoveling the ball to Garland covering home plate. It looked to me that if he had flipped the ball to Garland, Parra would have been out.

Putz closed out the game for the D-backs, but not without some drama first. After a Cuddyer fly out, Pacheco singled and Arenado walked. Rutledge hit a tapper back to Putz that was slow enough for both runners to advance. That brought Carlos Gonzalez to the plate with the tying runs in scoring position. CarGo chased two splitters out of the zone before eventually striking out on a high fastball out of the zone, ending the threat and ending the game.

15-10
Streak: Lost 2
Games back: Tied for first

Source: FanGraphs

Roll Call Info
Total comments	1,211
Total commenters	46
Commenter list	CentralCaliRox, Charlie Drysdale, Chrysicat, Colin Neilson, DAWNMARIE01, Drew Creasman, ES46NE10, Ender-25, Funabashi, Goeldfinger, Junction Rox, Kevin V. Minor, Kyle Domingos, MissR, MohrPlease, Nephelimdream,Nick95, Northsider1964, Paleface Destro, PinchHitLancePainter, PurpleToPurple, RdRnnr, RockyMountainWay91,Roxman4ever, SDcat09, Shoemaker, The Lodo Magic Man, WanderingRoxFan, WhiskeyDrinkingMan, Yokel,biondino, bishoPurple, coffeeis4closersonly, colorockies, crazedjohn, djmbluemoon, everever, evers44, hotdoglady,idj2, nodakroxfan, oldcoachB, purplesocks, rockiesfan4ever, webgem14, wolf213
Story URLs	http://www.purplerow.com/2013/4/28/4279008/game-25-jon-garland-vs-patrick-corbin http://www.purplerow.com/2013/4/28/4279282/game-25-overflow

#	Commenter	# Comments
1	PurpleToPurple	171
2	ES46NE10	94
3	WhiskeyDrinkingMan	80
4	Nick95	73
5	MohrPlease	58
6	Chrysicat	56
7	SDcat09	49
8	rockiesfan4ever	48
9	bishoPurple	43
10	RockyMountainWay91	42

Game 25: Overflow

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 18:24:10 -0000

The Rockies floweth over

Game 25: Jon Garland vs. Patrick Corbin

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 17:10:29 -0000

The two losses for the Rockies this series have been a case of missed opportunities and poor execution with men on base. In order to salvage a split with the Diamondbacks cashing in on those opportunities will be key. Especially, against D-backs starter Patrick Corbin who has been excellent so far this year.

In order to bolster an offense that is in a bit of a funk the Rockies have called up much ballyhooed prospect Nolan Arenado. Arenado will bat seventh and man third base for the Rockies today. Hopefully, Arenado can solidify the left side of the infield and also provide some pop with the bat. It is not uncommon for even the highest touted prospects to struggle when first called up, so I would caution Rockies' fans to temper their expectations for Arenado.

The Rockies lineup will not feature Carlos Gonzalez who has been given the day off while he tries to battle his way out of a 4-34 slump.

Jon Garland takes the bump as he looks to rebound from his first shaky start of the year. Garland has been solid outside of his last outing and he looks to continue the excellent pitching the Rockies have gotten this series. The starters have pitched well, but the bullpen has been absolutely fantastic. The bullpen has allowed just one unearned run in 10 2/3 innings this series.

Lineups:

Rockies

1. Eric Young Jr. LF

2. Dexter Fowler CF

3. Troy Tulowitzki SS

4. Wilin Rosario C

6. Jordan Pacheco 1B

7. Nolan Arenado 3B

8. Josh Rutledge 2B

9. Jon Garland P

Diamondbacks

1. Gerrardo Parra CF

2. Cody Ross RF

3. Jason Kubel LF

4. Paul Goldschmidt 1B

5. Miguel Montero C

6. Eric Chavez 3B

7. Josh Wilson 2B

9. Patrick Corbin P

Go Rockies!!!!

The Rockies lineup will not feature Carlos Gonzalez who has been given the day off while he tries to battle his way out of a 4-34 slump.

Lineups:

Rockies

1. Eric Young Jr. LF

2. Dexter Fowler CF

3. Troy Tulowitzki SS

4. Wilin Rosario C

6. Jordan Pacheco 1B

7. Nolan Arenado 3B

8. Josh Rutledge 2B

9. Jon Garland P

Diamondbacks

1. Gerrardo Parra CF

2. Cody Ross RF

3. Jason Kubel LF

4. Paul Goldschmidt 1B

5. Miguel Montero C

6. Eric Chavez 3B

7. Josh Wilson 2B

9. Patrick Corbin P

Go Rockies!!!!

Blake Street Stroll: Michael Cuddyer's early success

Kyle Domingos — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 23:18:27 -0000

The Rockies have been playing very good baseball this year and to no one's surprise the offense has thrived with Tulowitzki carrying the load. Carlos Gonzalez has been great, although recently struggling, Dexter Fowler has built off of last years' breakout campaign and Wilin Rosario can flat out crush baseballs. Something I feel that maybe hasn't gotten enough attention is Michael Cuddyer's hot start.

When Cuddyer was acquired during the off-season in 2012 there where fairly high expectations amongst Rockies fans for him, myself included. After all, Cuddyer was a guy that hit 20-30 HRs and drove in 70-100 runs most of his career in Minnesota. Most figured that in Coors Field those numbers would elevate and it was fair to expect 25-30 HRs with 80-100 RBIs. However, 2012 wrote a different story for Cuddyer as he struggled to a .260 average with 16 HRs and 53 RBIs before his season was cut short due to an oblique injury.

Fast forward to 2013, Cuddyer is off to a blistering start. Thomas Harding notes that Cuddyer is more at ease during his second year in the NL and that likely plays a large factor in his early success.Through 23 games he already has 5 HRs and 17 RBIs. He's got a .325/.393/.600 slash line.

It's hard to quantify what a hitting coach can do for a player, because there are so many variables that go in to hitting. For a veteran like Cuddyer, Bichette likely didn't tell him anything he didn't already know. What a hitting coach can do is provide a new mindset or refresh an old one and I believe that is the case so far this year.

When comparing 2012 to this year and the rest of Cuddyer's career I believe that an increase in plate discipline has been the main cause for his early success. In 2012 Cuddyer had an O-Swing% of 36.2%, that means he swung at pitches outside of the strike zone 36.2% of the time. This year that number is 30.4% and his career O-Swing% is 32.6%. Cuddyer also has been more agreesive swinging at strikes this year with a Z-Swing% of 66.9% compared to 59.1% last year and his career average of 58.8%.

I would assert that not only is Cuddyer swinging at better pitches this year, but that he is swinging harder which might have to do with the new aggressive approach Bichette and Weiss have been going for. There isn't a stat that I'm aware of that measures swing speed, but I can take make some assertions based on his contact rates. His line drive rates are actually down this year and his ground ball rates are up, but his HR/FB ratio is at 29.4% compared to 18.2% last year and a 13% career average.

That leads me to believe that he has been swinging for the fences a bit more this year. His line drives are likely down because when a batter swings harder it's easier to roll over and hit a GB versus a LD, but it's also easier to hit a HR if contact is made. The other stats that lead me to believe he is swinging harder this year is that he's making less contact overall this year. His O-Contact% is down 11% this year and 13% compared to his career. That means he's making less contact when swinging at pitches outside of the strike zone then he has in years past, and his overall Contact% is down 4% from last year and 7% from his career Contact%.

A good guess as to why his contact rates are down is simple; he's swinging harder. I think the reason he's making less contact on balls out of the zone is because the harder you swing the less likely you are to hit the ball...generally speaking. During the broadcast Saturday night Drew Goodman pointed out that Cuddyer had said "I'm just trying to hit the ball hard somewhere". Sure, every baseball player says that, but I really think Cuddyer might be in more of a see-the-ball hit-the-ball-hard approach this year versus last year where he may have been feeling out the National League.

Bichette's influence and Cuddyer's increased comfort level in the NL are both factors for this mindset I believe.

Hopefully, it wasn't to hard to stick with those numbers and you can see that increased plate discipline as well as swinging harder may be the reasons for Cuddyer's early success. Also, Bichette and Weiss' impact should be taking into consideration and Cuddyer's continued familiarity with the National League.

Game Wrap: Diamondbacks 3, Rockies 2

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 03:40:48 -0000

Jeff Francis did his job, the bullpen did their job, but the Rockies' offense did not.

The Rockies produced just two runs on the night and ultimately lost 3-2 in ten innings Saturday night. A disappointing loss for a team who will now be looking to split the four game set with the Snakes tomorrow. The Rockies walked four times in the first inning and seven times overall, but could not produce a run off of Miley. Carlos Gonzalez, who is really slumping now, grounded into a double play in the first and Wilin Rosario struck out with the bases loaded to allow Miley to escape.

In the 5th the Rockies loaded the bases again only to see Cuddyer ground into an inning ending double play. The Rockies had chances, but for whatever reason could not capitalize. The Rockies also ran into a few outs. Cuddyer was picked off of second in the eighth after he and Rosario hit back-to-back singles to start the frame. Rosario moved to second on the play and was doubled off second when Rutledge lined one to right and Rosario badly misread the ball.

The game ended in the tenth on a sacrifice fly to deep left center off the bat of Cody Ross, but the winning run was at third because of a throwing error on Rosario when A.J. Pollock was attempting to steal second.

This was a game the Rockies should have broken open early. They didn't, and those types of things always come back to bite you.

15-9
Streak: Lose 1
Games Back: 0
Games Left: 138

Source: FanGraphs

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Game 24: Overflow

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 00:57:00 -0000

Overflow

Game 24: Jeff Francis vs. Wade Miley

Kyle Domingos — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 21:40:09 -0000

Jeff Francis has struggled mightily in his last three starts after beginning the season on a positive note. Francis, the Rockies most dependable pitcher last season, will have better conditions this time out.

Sub-freezing temperatures may have affected Francis and the defense behind him the last two starts, but there will be no such excuse Saturday night in Arizona where the forecast calls for the game time temperature to be at 94 degrees. Francis is pitching on three days' rest as the Rockies had to change the rotation due to Tuesday's doubleheader.

It may be too early to say, but Francis might be fighting for a chance to stay in the rotation given his struggles and the success of Pomeranz in triple-A.

For the Diamondbacks lefty Wade Miley(2-0) takes the hill. Miley finished second in the NL Cy Young voting last year and has gotten off to a strong start this year. Miley has gone at least six innings and given up no more then three runs in his first four starts this season.

Lineups:

Colorado

1. Dexter Fowler CF

7. Josh Rutledge 2B

8. Chris Nelson 3B

9. Jeff Francis P

Arizona

1. Martin Prado 3B

2. A.J. Pollock CF

5. Cody Ross LF

6. Gerrardo Para RF

7. Josh Wilson 2B

9. Wade Miley P

Go Rockies!

It may be too early to say, but Francis might be fighting for a chance to stay in the rotation given his struggles and the success of Pomeranz in triple-A.

Lineups:

Colorado

1. Dexter Fowler CF

7. Josh Rutledge 2B

8. Chris Nelson 3B

9. Jeff Francis P

Arizona

1. Martin Prado 3B

2. A.J. Pollock CF

5. Cody Ross LF

6. Gerrardo Para RF

7. Josh Wilson 2B

9. Wade Miley P

Go Rockies!

Friday Pebble Report: Drew Pomeranz and Eddie Butler shine

Kyle Domingos — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 03:35:03 -0000

Triple-A Colorado Springs - W 13-5 (11-7)

Drew Pomeranz continued to pitch well for Colorado Springs on Thursday, allowing just one run in six innings of work. His only blemish was an RBI infield single off the bat of Tucson outfielder Daniel Robertson. Pomeranz struck out six and gave up just three hits and two walks. It seems the only thing Pomeranz still needs to work on is being a little more economical with his pitches as is took him 103 pitches to get through six innings. If Francis continues to struggle I wouldn't be surprised to see Pomeranz called up soon.

Not only did Drew Pomeranz pitch well, but the Sky Sox hit and hit very well. The Sky Sox pounded out 18 hits and 13 runs with every starter collecting a hit except for phenom Nolan Arenado of all people. Included in the 18 hit barrage where multi-hit nights from DJ LeMahieu, Charlie Blackmon, Tyler Colvin, Ben Paulsen, Charlie Culberson, Lars Davis, and even Drew Pomeranz. Out of the 18 hits, 11 were for extra bases with six doubles, four triples, and a home run. Blackmon had a triple and the lone home run on the night ,while driving in three runs. LeMahieu also collected three RBIs and the Sox were 9-20 with RISP on the night.

Double-A Tulsa - L 9-6 (10-10)

Tulsa blew a 6-0 lead to Arkansas Thursday. All six runs came in the first two innings and after that it was all Arkansas. The offense for Tulsa was highlighted by a 3-run HR off the bat off Kent Matthes in the second inning. The Drillers also got RBIs from Kyle Parker, Henry Wrigley, and Angelys Nina.

On the hill Tim Gustafson gave up four runs over five innings. He was followed by Joe Gardner who had all kinds of control problems during the sixth inning. He walked three, hit a batter and threw a wild pitch before being pulled in favor of Isaiah Froneberger. Froneberger took the loss giving up three runs in two innings of work.

High-A Modesto L 6-2 (9-12)

Tyler Anderson, the Rockies first selection in the 2011 First-Year Player Draft, pitched five effective innings giving up just one run on seven hits while striking out six and walking none. Anderson left with the game tied at one, but Nick Schnaitmann gave up three runs in an 1.1 innings and Modesto went on to lose 6-2.

Taylor Featherston his his first HR of the year for the Nuts, a solo shot in the eighth inning. The other run came off the bat of David Kandilas who singled home a run in the first.

Low-A Asheville - W 3-0 (12-9)

Eddie Butler was brilliant in this one taking a no hitter into the seventh inning before giving up a single to Michael Antonio. It was the only hit Butler would allow through eight innings of work. He also walked two batters. Butler was in control all game long throwing 66 of his 96 pitches for strikes while striking out four. The outing improved Butler's record to 2-0 and brought his ERA down to 1.84. Butler has only given up 12 hits in his 29.1 innings of work.

Asheville didn't need much offense, but they got two RBIs from Matt Argyropoulos and scored one other unearned run. Catcher Tom Murphy was 2-3 with a double to extend his eight game hitting streak and raise his average to .381.

Game Wrap: Diamondbacks 5, Rockies 4

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 22:50:11 -0000

The Rockies lost a frustrating game Sunday afternoon to the Diamondbacks. The Rockies, winners of eight straight games coming into this afternoon's tilt, stranded the potential tying run at third base when EY Jr. hit a weak come-backer to closer J.J. Putz to end the game.

The Rockies did what they had been doing all series, staking themselves to an early lead and relying on pitching to close out the game. Only this time with Betancourt unavailable the Rockies turned to Wilton Lopez to preserve a one run lead in the ninth.

Lopez has struggled in the early going this year, but had pitched better of late. After a lead off single by Didi Gregorious, A.J. Pollock chopped one over the out stretched arm of third baseman Jonathan Herrera for a double. With runners on second and third, Alfredo Marte chopped another ball to third, this time fielded by Herrera - who had to charge the ball - made the safe play at first base allowing the tying run to score.

The next batter, Paul Goldschmidt, hit a deep sacrifice fly to center and that gave the D-backs the lead for good.

My thoughts on the last couple innings that transpired:

Cuddyer should have caught the ball off the bat of Cody Ross in the 8th that allowed Goldschmidt to score. He got a bad read on it and when he retreated back on the ball it was too late. It would have been a nice catch, but I'm sure it was one Cuddyer would like to have back and it would have saved a run.

In the ninth inning I had no problem with bringing Lopez in. Lopez closed for Houston at times and did pretty well. I know he's struggled a bit this year, but he has a very good track record. You don't flush his career numbers down the toilet because of a poor start to the month of April. Now, I do think they he could have done better, obviously, but he got three straight GB's to start the inning. The first was a clean base hit, but the double by Pollock was extremely unlucky and had Nelson or Brignac been at third it might have been a double play or at least a force out at second.

After the double, Marte grounded out to third and Herrera elected to throw across the diamond instead of trying to nail the tying run at the plate. In my opinion he would have had a tough play at home and it would have been a bang bang play. Better to get the out and hope that it stays tied going to the ninth. After all, it's not like the Rockies aren't capable of putting up a crooked number offensively.

As far as the rest of the game goes, four runs isn't going to win a ton of ball games at Coors Field. Overall, the offense has been great this year, but the last couple games they haven't been all that productive. They need to get the bats going again.

But hey, we still won the series and had a chance for a sweep. A frustrating loss, but we had just won eight in a row so there it's not as if they have been playing bad baseball. It's good to be critiquing a near ninth win in a row. I loved the way the Rockies bounced back after being swept by San Francisco and I think they can bounce back against a very good Atlanta team.

13-5

Games Back: 0

Streak: Lost 1

Wins to beat Keith: 41

Games Left: 144

Source: FanGraphs

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Game No. 18: Overflow

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 19:24:43 -0000

Let's send the D-backs home with their rattler's tucked between their legs!

2013 Colorado Rockies Game No. 18: Brandon McCarthy vs. Juan Nicasio

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 18:52:19 -0000

The Rockies look to continue their franchise best start to the season and at home as they go for their ninth straight victory Sunday afternoon. Offense is usually the name of the game for the Rockies, but the last two games against the Diamondbacks have been all about good pitching and timely hitting.

The Rockies might need to muster a few more runs than they have scored the last two ballgames as they have been held to just seven runs and nine hits in the series. Brandon McCarthy might be just the pitcher the Rockies need. McCarthy has struggled in the early going this season going 0-2 with a 7.47 ERA. Getting back on track might not be so easy for McCarthy as he is facing a Rockies offense that likely won't be kept dormant much longer.

Juan Nicasio toes the rubber for the Rockies as he looks to jump to 3-0 on the young season. Nicasio hasn't exactly been stellar, but he's keeping the Rockies in games and hopefully he can begin to find his groove. Nicasio will be facing a frustrated Diamondbacks offense, Cody Ross and manager Kirk Gibson were ejected from yesterday's game and Cody Ross said. "To be honest, I was frustrated with myself, with us, the way we've been not swinging the bats the last few games."

Let's hope Nicasio can keep them frustrated for one more game.

Rockies:

1. Eric Young Jr. CF

7. Chris Nelson 3B

8. Jonathon Herrera 2B

9. Juan Nicasio P

Diamondbacks:

1. Gerrardo Parra LF

2. Martin Prado 2B

5. Cody Ross RF

6. Eric Chavez 3B

7. Didi Gregorius SS

8. A.J. Pollock CF

9. Brandon McCarthy P

GO ROCKIES!! Bring out the brooms.

Let's hope Nicasio can keep them frustrated for one more game.

Rockies:

1. Eric Young Jr. CF

7. Chris Nelson 3B

8. Jonathon Herrera 2B

9. Juan Nicasio P

Diamondbacks:

1. Gerrardo Parra LF

2. Martin Prado 2B

5. Cody Ross RF

6. Eric Chavez 3B

7. Didi Gregorius SS

8. A.J. Pollock CF

9. Brandon McCarthy P

GO ROCKIES!! Bring out the brooms.

Blake Street Stroll, Week 3: The Rockies are going streaking

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 04:55:14 -0000

First of all, I hope that people saw what Andre Miller did yesterday. I love the way he plays the game and it was a pleasure to watch him win a playoff game almost single-handedly. The Nuggets have now won 24 straight home games.

The Nuggets streak has been impressive, but the Rockies are on a streak of their own, having won eight straight. I did some digging into the Rockies history of streaking.

6

The number of times not including this year, that the Rockies have won at least 8 games in a row. The first time they accomplished this feat was Sunday, July 7th to Wednesday, July 17th 1996. Kevin Ritz won twice during the streak, Bruce Ruffin, Darren Holmes, Armando Reynoso, Roger Bailey, Marvin Freeman, and Jamey Wright all won once. The average margin of victory was 2.88 runs and the Rockies averaged 7.38 runs per game while giving up 4.5 runs per game. So far the current streak has yielded an average margin of victory of 2.88 runs and the Rockies have averaged 6.63 runs compared to 3.75 runs allowed.

3

The number of seasons the Rockies have had a winning streak over 10 games. 2007, 2009, and 2010. If a streak is any indication of a playoff team then if the Rockies can stretch their streak to 10 games they could be looking at a playoff season. 2010 was the only non-playoff year out of that streak, but the Rockies were just a game out of first in the NL West in September before stumbling to the finish line.

5

The number of years that the Rockies have had at least an eight game winning streak not including this year. In all five of those seasons the Rockies finished over .500. History would suggest that the Rockies will finish above .500 this year.

3

The number of games won in a row by starters during the streak and it's happened twice. ALL of last year the Rockies didn't have three wins in a row from their starting staff. Put the four-man rotation and pitch limits aside and it still is frightening that the Rockies couldn't put together at least three good starting pitching performances in a row last year.

During the Rockies' five game win streak earlier in the season their starters won four straight. That makes three times already in 17 games that the Rockies have had a starter pick up the win at least three straight games. It blew my mind to discover that the Rockies failed to do that a single time in 2012. Thank goodness for 2013.

1

The number of times the Rockies have had a win streak of this length in April. They have only had a winning record in April 6 times in their franchise history and one of those times was the strike shortened '95 season in which they played only 5 April games.

The Rockies usually heat up when the weather heats up. If that is the case this season, the Rockies could be looking at their first division crown. Typically, the Rockies are playing catch-up ball after April not leading the way. I know that's a lofty prediction and the Rockies aren't far into this season, but you never know.

5

Speaking of winning the division. Five is the number of days during the streak the Rockies have had the lead in the NL West. On the season the Rockies have already enjoyed 13 days atop the division. In their entire history the Rockies have only had four other seasons in which they have been in first place for at least 10 days. This includes off days. So to say that the Rockies are in foreign territory is putting it mildly.

In 1995 the Rockies had 117 days where they were in first place. The next longest streak was 2006 of 36 total days in first place. This is not consecutive days in first place mind you, but overall days in first throughout an entire season. The Rockies, in their 20th season, have already enjoyed more days in first place this year then in 16 of their previous 20 seasons. Wow.

Maybe getting excited over a hot April start is premature, but looking at the Rockies history makes me much more appreciative then I would have otherwise been. It also makes me cringe to think that the Rockies have had so little success in their history. Hopefully, year 20 is a new beginning for the Rockies.

Friday Pebble Report: Pomeranz delivers encouraging performance

Kyle Domingos — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 04:34:42 -0000

AAA Colorado Springs - W 4-2 (8-6)

Lefty Drew Pomeranz was perfect through 3.2 innings before running into trouble in the 4th. After retiring the first two batters of the 4th he gave up his first base runner of the night, a single to right field off the bat of Kila Ka'aihue. He then walked and hit the next two batters loading the bases before striking out Tyler Kuhn to end the threat. Pomeranz final line was 5.2 innings, two hits, one BB, and nine Ks. He threw 96 pitches, 60 of which were strikes. All in all an encouraging start for Pomeranz. His ERA now sits at 3.31 and the W brought his record to a perfect 2-0.

Nolan Arenado's six game streak in which he had at least one extra-base hit and an RBI was snapped as he went 0-4. His average is now a pedestrian ,417. Arenado isn't the only one doing damage in the middle of the order for the Sky Sox. Corey Dickerson and Ben Paulsen have also been tearing the cover off the ball and after a slow start Tyler Colvin seems to be finding his swing again. Dickerson tripled home a run, Paulsen was 2-4 with an RBI, and Colvin doubled in the contest.

AA Tulsa - L 3-2 (6-7)

Chad Bettis gave up one run in 4.2 innings as well as four hits and five K's. The only damage against Bettis was a solo shot in the first inning to the first batter he faced. Despite not walking anybody it took Bettis 91 pitches to get through his 4.2 innings. Joe Gardner relieved Bettis and took the loss giving up two runs in his 2.1 innings of work. Gardner's ERA sits at 8.38 in 9.2 innings on the season.

Offensively the bats were quiet for Tulsa. Kent Matthes was 3-4 with a 2B and Kiel Roling connected for his 3rd home run of the year. Kyle Parker was 0-3 and Rafael Ortega, who saw brief action with the big league club last year, was 0-4. Ortega's average dropped to .050.

High-A Modesto - W 8-5 (8-7)

Tyler Gagnon started for the Nuts and gave up 5 runs in 3.1 innings of work. His relief fared better, pitching the final 5.2 innings without giving up a run. Nick Schnaitmann got the W with 2.1 innings of scoreless relief. Nelson Gonzalez, Kenneth Roberts, and Scott Oberg also were un-scored upon. Oberg got his 5th save and the Nuts closer has yet to give up a run.

Trevor Story was 2-4, Ryan Casteel had two hits including a home run to go along with 3 RBIs, and Jordan Ribera was 2-4 with a double, home run, and 2 RBIs.

Low-A Asheville - L 7-1 (6-9)

Shane Broyles dropped to 0-2 on the year for the Tourists surrendering six runs, four earned, on five hits and two walks. He struck out one. Brook Hart pitched two innings of relief and gave up a run followed by Patrick Johnson. Johnson pitched around two base hits in his inning of work to leave unscathed.

The lone run for Asheville came on an RBI single from RF Julian Yan. Francisco Sosa, Derek Jones, and Juan Ciriaco picked up two hits a piece.

Game Wrap: Rockies 2, Padres 1

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 23:21:59 -0000

In the first two games of the series the Rockies had no trouble scoring runs, but game three was a different story. The Rockies couldn't so much as get a man to second base until the 6th inning, as Padres starter Clayton Richard stymied the previously hot Rockies offense. It wasn't until Todd Helton's pinch-hit two-run HR off of Dale Thayer that the Rockies got any offense and it was all the offense the Rockies would need thanks in large part to a brilliant effort from Jorge De La Rosa.

Helton got off to a slow start this year and had many questioning if maybe he's getting to old for this. Well, Helton shot down some critics with a strong offensive performance in the series going 6-for-9 with four RBI and three extra-base hits -- including Sunday's decisive home run. Helton's theatrics were set up by a Rockies pitching staff that surrendered just two hits all afternoon.

De La Rosa pitched 6 effective innings, striking out 7 and giving up 2 hits and 2 BBs. His biggest blemish was his inability to get down a sacrifice bunt; it could have been worse than that, as he was hit on the finger attempting to lay down the bunt. De La Rosa shook it off and seemed to get sharper after being hit. Wilton Lopez and Matt Belisle followed DLR's performance with 1-2-3 seventh and eighth innings, setting the stage for Rafael Betancourt's fifth save of the year.

Betancourt, who usually has impeccable command, walked the first two batters he faced. After a sacrifice bunt and sacrifice fly Betancourt faced Nick Hundley with the tying run on second. Betancourt struck out Hundley to end the threat and preserve the Rockies' win.

8-4

Games Back: 0.5

Streak: Won 3

Games Left: 150

Source: FanGraphs

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Rockies vs. Padres Game No. 12 Overflow

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 18:53:26 -0000

Let's get a sweep!!

top of the 7th	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R
Colorado Rockies	0	0	0	0	0	0				0
San Diego Padres	0	0	0	0	0	0				0

Join the Game Thread

2013 Colorado Rockies Game No. 12: Jorge De La Rosa vs. Clayton Richard

Kyle Domingos — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 18:22:55 -0000

Jorge De La Rosa looks to build on his last start in which he pitched 6 quality innings with the only blemish being a first inning 3 run shot from Hunter Pence. De La Rosa seems to be improving and facing a weak Padre lineup will hopefully allow for another step in the right direction.

The Rockies will once again be resting some of the regulars this Sunday although not quite as many as last Sunday. CarGo gets his first day off of the season and Helton will recieve his cutomary day game after night game rest. Also, Torrealba gets the start instead of Rosario, but that may be more a result of the Rockies wanting to have Torrealba be De La Rosa's personal catcher.

Rockies:

1. Eric Young Jr. LF

2. Dexter Fowler CF

3.Troy Tulowitzki SS

4. Michael Cuddyer RF

6.Josh Rutledge 2B

7. Chris Nelson 3B

8. Yorvit Torrealba C

9. Jorge De La Rosa P

Padres:

1. Chris Denorfia RF

2. Everth Cabrera SS

3. Yonder Alonso 1B

4. Jesus Guzman LF

5. Jedd Gyorko 3B

6. Nick Hundley C

7. Cameron Maybin CF

8. Alexi Amarista 2B

9. Clayton Richard P

Go Rockies!!

Rockies:

1. Eric Young Jr. LF

2. Dexter Fowler CF

3.Troy Tulowitzki SS

4. Michael Cuddyer RF