Morning Links: Rockies News 7/1

With a new month upon us and the Colorado Rockies more than half way through their 2013 regular season schedule, things are still looking up. The team is 41-42, good for second place in the NL West, two games back of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Starting Tuesday the Rockies face division opponents for 14 straight games heading into the All-Star break. Here’s what else is happening with the Rockies:

Fowler. Image: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

From Troy Renck: Taking the National League West crown is no inside job (Denver Post)

"The Rockies’ case to add is twofold: The division, which they’ve never won, is wide open. And they are arguably a few boosts from contending deep into September, which would be a remarkable achievement following last season.“The question then becomes not why trade, but why not now. As in yesterday?”"

From Thomas Harding: Fowler out of lineup, but Weiss optimistic (MLB.com)

"Dexter Fowler was not in Sunday afternoon’s starting lineup against the Giants, but manager Walt Weiss spoke with optimism about the condition of the switch-hitting outfielder’s right wrist.“Fowler hasn’t played since going 0-for-4 Tuesday at Boston. If Fowler is not healed enough to play Tuesday against the Dodgers, it’s likely the Rockies will place him on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to Wednesday.”"

From Mark Polishuk: Rangers, D’Backs, Giants scouting Rios (MLBTradeRumors.com)

"White Sox outfielder Alex Rios is drawing interest from several teams as the trade deadline approaches, and the Rangers, Diamondbacks and Giants are a few of the clubs scouting the veteran, industry sources tell ESPN Chicago’s Bruce Levine.  Rios heard about the Rangers’ interest first-hand from former teammate and current Texas catcher A.J. Pierzynski.”"