Ian Desmond has taken over a starting spot in the Rockies’ lineup, right before a stretch run | The Denver Post
Nick Groke writes that Bud Black is set on Ian Desmond as the team's starting first baseman for the rest of the season. He'll finish, then, where he was supposed to start. Once Desmond returned from his spring training hand injury, Mark Reynolds had entrenched himself at first base.
But over the past several weeks Reynolds of 2017 began hitting more like Reynolds of 2014. That's to say, a good bat to have on the team, but not in the starting lineup. There will be some clamoring that Ryan McMahon should be the one getting starts at first base, but since that's clearly not happening, it's perhaps not worth expending breath and/or keystrokes on.
Kiszla: Who’s the real MVP of the Rockies’ playoff push? Sorry, Charlie. It’s Nolan Arenado. | The Denver Post
Mark Kiszla suggests that "any narrative" other than the one that has Nolan Arenado as the team MVP "is balderdash." I disagree, but the pretty good use of "balderdash" does gain some sympathy. Really though, Kiszla has a point that while Blackmon is having an all-time season for Rockies position players, Arenado is the only truly irreplaceable player on the Rockies. That, and it's reasonable to give Arenado extra credit for being in the midst of what's shaping up to be a Hall of Fame career.
Chad Bettis shows improvement vs. Padres | MLB.com
Thomas Harding gives a positive review of Bettis's start on Saturday night. Black echoes the sentiment and optimism. The Rockies didn't need to push Bettis beyond the decent 4 2/3 innings he pitched because of the expanded roster. Bettis should get one more start before the season ends.
Putting the anemic offense in perspective | Rox Pile
Noah Yingling observes that the Rockies offense, which as not been good lately, has been a persistent issue throughout the season and won’t magically go away now.
Cardinals drop series in Pittsburgh 9.24.17 | Viva El Birdos
The Pirates helped the Rockies yesterday, beating the Cardinals 4-1 in Pittsburgh.
Milwaukee Brewers trounced by Chicago Cubs 5-0 | Brew Crew Ball
And the Cubs beat the Brewers, which also helped the Rockies.