Andrew Brown's fourth inning solo home run broke the Rockies' streak of 26 scoreless innings. Sure, the Rockies got swept by losing 7-1 to the Dodgers, but I'm in the business of silver linings.
I'll give you another one: Rafael Ortega looks like he belongs at the big league level, at least through one game. The 21-year-old outfielder went 2-for-3 with a walk and a hit-by-pitch in his MLB debut. He also stole a base and registered a couple of putouts. Not a bad day for a guy who was playing instructional league ball yesterday.
Since it is my duty to provide our fine community (and I mean that -- we are a FINE community) fair and balanced coverage, I guess I'll speak to the negatives, as well. Jorge de la Rosa continues to prove that returning from a serious injury is no easy task, as he allowed a couple of two-run homers in four innings. His ERA is still above 9 after three starts as he tries to find his way. Winter ball may be a good option for DLR, although the organization may feel that the best way to regain strength will be to give him extended rest.
Sadly, Rob Scahill allowed his first run since being promoted to the Rockies as part of a rough fifth inning. Alex White continues to perform poorly at the big league level, with today's two-inning, two-run outing being no different. Carlos Torres is cool, though. I guess.
I've talked ad nauseam about the Rockies' inability to win at Chase Field during their history, and winning a game there this week is the only thing standing between the Rox and a 100-loss season. Suspense, I tell ya.
Source: FanGraphs