Rockies see once again just how special Ezequiel Tovar is

At this point in spring training, reps are crucial for big-league players getting ready for the long season ahead. It’s fun to count wins and losses, but right now, it’s all about preperation.

And that’s why, despite losing for the second straight day in Cactus League play, and scoring just one run, the Colorado Rockies had to be excited with their game against the Chicago White Sox Saturday afternoon.

And the excitement came right away as star shortstop Ezequiel Tovar hit a solo homer in the first inning. The blast was another reminder that the Rockies have something very special in Tovar, who went 2-for-3 against the White Sox.

Tovar enters his third season as the Rockies’ fulltime shortstop, and he’s just 23 years old. He already has a gold glove to his credit, and has made improvements at the plate since he made his rookie debut in 2023. 

Of course, when you become the face of the franchise, expectations grow, and Tovar will have high expectations this season, especially at the plate. But, make no misatke, Tovar knows that, and he’s looking forward to the challenge, a challenge he was up to on Saturday, even though the Rockies lost to the White Sox 2-1.

Despite the loss, Tovar wasn’t the only young Rockie to shine Saturday. Zac Veen had three hits, while Veen’s mentor, Brenton Doyle had a hit as well, and Hunter Goodman doubled. 

Colorado also got another strong start from Antonio Senzatela, who pitched four innings, not giving up a run, while striking out two. Bradley Blalock had another good relief appearance, so, while the Rockies dropped the game, all was not lost.

Colorado will be back in action with two different games on Sunday. The Rockies host the Kansas City Royals at 2:10 p.m. at Salt River Fields, while many of the top prospects in the organization will play in the Spring Breakout Game against the White Sox. That game will take place at 5:05 p.m.