August 29th 2024.
The Rockies' bottom third of the order has been struggling to produce runs. That's putting it lightly. However, in their recent game against the Marlins at Coors Field, they stepped up in a big way. Despite being the number nine hitter, Aaron Shunk had a rare start at second base and ended up hitting 2-for-3 with his first career home run. He entered the game with a batting average of .148, so this was a huge moment for him. "It felt amazing, I've been working so hard on my swing," Shunk said, adding that he was hopeful the team would be able to retrieve his special home run ball. He also mentioned the pressure of not getting much playing time and trying not to overthink when given the opportunity. "I just want to play my game and contribute in any way I can," Shunk said. It's definitely been a learning experience for him, but he's grateful for the support and guidance from his teammates.
Another rookie, catcher Drew Romo, also had a strong performance at the plate. Batting eighth, he went 2-for-4 with an RBI. He had been struggling with a .158 average, so this was a much-needed boost for him. Left fielder Nolan Jones, who had a .208 average coming into the game, also had a solid night with 2-for-3 and a walk, including two RBI singles. Manager Bud Black praised the bottom of the order for their contributions, especially on nights when the big hitters may not be performing. "That's how you win games, you can't rely on just one or two players," Black said.
Unfortunately for the Marlins, their game was marred by four errors, which ultimately led to the Rockies' 8-2 win. Shortstop Ezequiel Tovar also had a standout performance with a two-run double in the eighth inning, adding to his impressive 39 doubles this season. On the mound, Rockies starter Kyle Freeland had a solid outing, utilizing his changeup and inside fastball to keep the Marlins off-balance for six innings. He also reached a couple of milestones, surpassing Jeff Francis for the third-most innings pitched in franchise history and recording his 800th career strikeout.
After their tough loss the previous night, the Rockies were looking for a solid performance from their bullpen. Rookie right-hander Jeff Criswell delivered with a scoreless seventh and eighth, striking out five batters. Anthony Molina closed out the game with a scoreless ninth. The Marlins took an early lead with a leadoff homer from Derek Hill in the second inning, but the Rockies quickly tied it up in the bottom of the frame. They took the lead in the third thanks to some sloppy defense from the Marlins. Romo reached second base on a misplayed ball and later scored on a throwing error by pitcher Max Meyer. The Marlins tied it up in the fourth, but the Rockies pulled away with five runs in the sixth and eighth innings.
Looking ahead, the Rockies will face the Marlins again on Thursday afternoon. They will send Bradley Blalock to the mound, who is coming off his first big-league victory against the Yankees. Manager Bud Black praised his performance, but also noted that Blalock needs to work on locating his fastball better. The Marlins will counter with Valente Bellozo, who has struggled in his previous start against the Cubs. He will be looking to bounce back and improve on his 1.61 road ERA.
In the bigger picture, the Rockies will face the Orioles over the weekend, with Austin Gomber and Ryan Feltner set to take the mound. It will be an exciting series as the Rockies continue to climb up the leaderboards and chase after some of their franchise legends. "It's a special feeling to be mentioned with some of the guys I grew up watching and admiring," Freeland said about reaching milestones in his career. It's clear that the Rockies are a team to watch as they continue to develop their young talent and make their mark in the league.
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