The Rockies have some solid momentum going. The only problem with that is that momentum is only as good as your next day's starting pitcher. Of course, that's not a problem. Jim Tracy will send out his most consistent, most talented, most awesome starting pitcher tonight against a lefty with an ERA over five.
A win tonight, and the Rockies would extend their series unbeaten streak to five.
Jhoulys Chacin is having an All-Star caliber season despite seeing his strikeout rate continue to plummet as he gains experience. How? A .221 BABIP against (3rd lowest in MLB) sure helps, but don't assume he is getting lucky.
The Rockies' right-hander is starting to pitch more like the pitcher who dominated the minor leagues. After compiling ground ball rates over 60% throughout his minor league career, Chacin's ground ball rate had never been above 48% in his MLB career. As I mentioned this morning, his GB rate is up to 60.2% (3rd best in MLB) this season again, and his line drive rate allowed (12.5%) is 2nd best in MLB. Those rates likely won't stay elite, and he'll mix in some bad games, but to this point, his .221 BABIP has been earned far more than it has been lucked into.
Talbot isn't exactly a guy most teams are clamoring to git in their rotation. The right-hander has low velocity (average fastball = 90mph), walks too many, doesn't strike out that much, and he has allowed two home runs in each of his last three starts.
This is a match-up the Rockies should win, but of course, it is on the road.
Match-Up History
Rockies vs. Mitch Talbot
Ty Wigginton - 2-for-3, 2 HR.
No other Rockies have faced Talbot in their career.
Indians vs. Jhoulys Chacin
Orlando Cabrera - 2-for-3, 2 1B, HBP
No other Indians have faced Chacin in their career