Patrick Saunders is back with his mailbag, and first points out that Trevor Story was overlooked as the starting All-Star shortstop due to the Rockies tendency, as the only Mountain Time Zone team, to be watched less by the national media. Unless they start winning, this is unfortunately likely to continue. Next, he talks about the current trend in baseball. Many fans love the longball, and keep a sharp eye out for sluggers. However, there have been loads of strikeouts this season, as bullpens get better and better. There tend to be patterns in baseball, so we’ll see what kinds of things are to come.
Saunders talks about some trade rumors, seeing as how the Rockies now seem to be in a buying position. They are in some need of bullpen help, needing someone who can play well in the seventh inning. He also looks at potential coaching issues. With the problems the Rockies have been having, many of us want to find somewhere to place blame, and coaches are easy targets. Saunders claims that the pitching and hitting coaches are not really at fault, as many of the troubles are things only the players can work out for themselves. He also answers some questions about our numerous catchers, playing at altitude, and All-Star snubs.
Four targets Rockies could buy at MLB trade deadline | Mile High Sports
Not long ago, things were looking a bit gloomy for the Rockies. June was dreadful, and the trade deadline looked like it might bring some serious selling for the Rockies. But July has been a different story. They’ve won nine of their last twelve, including a proper trouncing of the Diamondbacks Wednesday night. So now the Rockies might be looking for someone who can help them continue to dominate. As hard as it is to believe, we need the help in the bullpen. A very expensive gamble has not paid off, and another reliever could mean some extra insurance. Colin Barnard at Mile High Sports tosses around some names that might be worth a look, like Joakim Soria, Blake Treinen, Tyson Ross, and Wilson Ramos. Each of these guys could bring a different competitive aspect to the Rockies. Any edge would be helpful, especially as the division is likely to get tougher and tougher.
Bettis scratched from Saturday start | Rockies.com
Chad Bettis, the right hander, will remain on the DL with his injured finger. The Rockies are playing it safe with the pitcher, protecting him from hurting himself any farther. He’s doing what he can to help the blister recover and has thrown some pitches and felt okay. But the Rockies are going to go with someone else. It’s still not sure exactly who will start on Saturday, but it could be Sam Howard, Jon Gray, or Yency Almonte. We’ll likely see Bettis soon, though, as that finger continues to heal.