Colorado Rockies morning after: 3 big things from the Arizona series
By Kevin Henry
It continues to be Story Time
Colorado shortstop Trevor Story has gone 4-for-13 over his last four games, but he has a hit in each of them as part of a 13-game hitting streak, the longest for any member of the Rockies this season. Story singled on Sunday to extend his streak that, of course, includes a walk-off home run against the Seattle Mariners that sent the Rockies into the All-Star break on a high.
Story’s home run in the All-Star Game and continued hitting shows that he can help Nolan Arenado carry the Rockies offense when needed. Over his last 15 games, he has put together a .404/.460/.737 slash line, one of the key reasons why Colorado has won 12 of those 15 games.
The rotation is getting crowded
With German Marquez heading to paternity leave on Sunday, Antonio Senzatela started for the Rockies in the series finale in Arizona. That means Tyler Anderson will start on Tuesday and Jon Gray will likely get the call on Wednesday in a short two-game series against Houston at Coors Field.
The Rockies will have an off day on Thursday before starting a three-game series at home against Oakland. What happens with the rotation at that point will be interesting to watch.
Chad Bettis will likely be ready to return to the Rockies after working through his blister issues. Marquez will also be ready to return from paternity leave. That puts the Rockies with Bettis, Marquez, Gray, Anderson, Freeland and Senzatela ready to start. Six pitchers for five spots brings up some questions. Will Senzatela be sent back to Triple-A after giving up four earned runs in 5.1 innings on Sunday? Will he be in longer relief or could Bettis be made into a long reliever once he returns?
Next: How Trevor Story can boost his MVP chances
It’s definitely something to keep an eye on as the Rockies will have to make a move when Marquez returns. We’ll be at Coors Field all week and keep you updated on the latest happenings.