:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/13367059/169068139.0.jpg)
Juan Nicasio needed a good outing in the worst way and he delivered. Nicasio had easily his best outing of the year, throwing six strong innings with three hits, one walk, and five strikeouts. Nicasio had wonderful command of his fastball and was even able to throw his slider for a strike in a few important places. Whether it was having Torrealba behind the dish, pitching for his rotation well-being, or simply just pitching to his ability, Nicasio gave the Rockies exactly what they needed.
Taking three of four from the Giants (should have been a sweep, but still not bad) was something the Rockies had to do. The Giants have been walking all over the Rockies recently, to be frank, and the Rockies finally fighting back is extremely encouraging. Especially against arch-nemesis Barry Zito, who typically owns the Rockies.
The Rockies took patient at-bats against Zito all afternoon and got big blows offensively from Carlos Gonzalez -- 2-for-3 with two walks and two RBI -- and Troy Tulowitzki -- 1-for-5 with two RBI -- as well as a four hit day from Dexter Fowler. Tulowitzki now leads the National League with 37 RBI.
The Giants defense once again did their pitching no favors, but give the Rockies credit for still pounding out 14 hits.
The Killer Bees -- Belisle, Brothers, and Betancourt -- each pitched shutdown innings and the Rockies are just a game out of first place heading into another big series with division leading Arizona.
Source: FanGraphs
