SEATTLE – Jordan Patterson knows full well that his current stint with the Colorado Rockies may be very short-lived. Called up on Saturday to take the place of Tom Murphy while the catcher is on paternity leave, the 26-year-old outfielder/first baseman is enjoying the moment and trying to help where he can.
"“Enjoy it, man. Enjoy being here and be ready to go,” Patterson said from the inside the visitors clubhouse at Safeco Field. “I’m ready to go if my name is called. If I need to help the team win, I will. Whatever they need me to do, I’ll do it. That’s what I’m here for.”"
Patterson saw action in 10 games for the Rockies during a September call-up in 2016. He was with the team for one day last season (and didn’t see any time on the field) and this is his first appearance with the big league club in 2018. It’s been tough for Patterson to crack the Colorado code for staying in the Majors, despite some impressive numbers at Triple-A.
This season, Patterson has put together a .265/.373/.549 slash line with 19 homers and 52 RBI. He also had quite the day on July 1, connecting for his 100thprofessional career homer on the same day he was hit by a pitch for the 100thtime in his career.
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But Patterson isn’t worrying about any of those numbers right now. He’s enjoying his time with the Rockies and learning what he can.
"“Any time you make it up here, whether it’s three days or three months, it’s a fun time,” Patterson said. “I just try to ride the wave and enjoy it.”"
Patterson told me in our exclusive chat that his focus while in Triple-A has been on more than just the statistical side of the game. It’s also about the attitude he is bringing to the park every day.
"“Just being consistent,” Patterson said. “I’ve been a little bit inconsistent from my personal standards. Just be consistent with my approach and my swing and how I’m playing the game defensively and offensively, as kind of a leader. What kind of person am I being? Am I the same person every day? Evaluate myself like that. Make sure I’m showing up and being the same guy, regardless if I’m hitting .220 or .320.”"
Next: Is Colorado's 2018 season shaping up to be like 2008?
According to MLBPipeline.com, Patterson is Colorado’s 19th-rated prospect. A fourth-round pick of the Rockies in 2013, Patterson has flashed his talent and skills in the minors. Now he’s just looking for an opening to show he belongs for longer than a couple of days with Colorado.