Colorado Rockies: Jon Gray hasn’t just been unlucky, he has a problem | Rox Pile
We saw Jon Gray develop more and more as 2017 went on, into the star for the Rockies pitching staff. However, after the Wild Card loss, Gray hit a rough patch, coming back to spring training and not showing us what we saw in the second half of last season. Bud Black had faith in him and saw some glimmers of greatness that made him believe in Gray, but the right-hander has disappointed us in the start of the 2018 season. Every now and then, we catch a glimpse, but it’s not wonderful news overall. Some of this is due to unfortunate luck, as we can see from some of his statistics. However, a huge problem is his fastball. He’s throwing them right over the plate, just where hitters want to see them. He’s a little predictable with his pitching, and hitters are figuring him out. There’s still work that needs to be done.
Yes, the Rockies came out with an 8-2 win against the Reds on Sunday, but one game doesn’t fix season-long offensive trouble. What’s saved them thus far has been the long ball, but without it, the Rockies would have a really hard time winning any games. Colorado’s strategy seems to be manipulating the players they currently have into different lineups that might lead to success. They have an incredible amount of defensive depth, which allows Bud Black to juggle the team around to find what works. Ryan McMahon came back up, and he has shown some great versatility and strength defensively. Bud Black is now just hoping to see some offense from the young infielder. The Rockies have a lot of strengths, and if they can discover that right configuration, they could hang on to that first place spot.
Rox eyeing power bat, crafty arm in 2018 draft | Rockies.com
With the Rockies’ success in 2017, the team earned a lower position in the draft. Due to less fortunate seasons in the recent past, the Rockies have been able to build a pretty strong pitching staff. This year, though, they need to look for a strong pitcher and a powerful bat.
BSN Rockies Podcast: Adam Ottavino and Jake McGee on the bullpen’s mentality | BSN Denver
Drew Creasman talks to Adam Ottavino and Jake McGee about relieving from the bullpen. He’s optimistic about the offensive production that we’ve seen recently, and the players we can hope to see more from.
Somebody named a thoroughbred horse after Tim Lincecum. | McCovey Chronicles
You know you’ve made it in life when someone names a horse after you.