Jon Gray struggled and the Rockies could not cash in some early opportunities in a 5-4 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies. Gray ran hot and cold throughout his outing, but ultimately took 98 pitches to get through just 4 2⁄3 innings. He struck out eight, but allowed the same number of baserunners (five hits and three walks) and was responsible for all five Phillies runs. All five Phillies runs in the game came with two outs, as well.
Rodgers takes the collar
Rockies second baseman and top prospect Brendan Rodgers made his big league debut, but it was rather unmemorable as he went 0-for-4 with a strikeout to end the game against Phillies closer Hector Neris. Rodgers did record his first RBI in his first at bat, as Raimel Tapia scored on a fielder’s choice. Rodgers will look for his first big league hit tomorrow when the series in Philadelphia continues.
Desmond goes deep
Down 5-2 in the top of the sixth, center fielder Ian Desmond helped to get the Rockies back in the game with a two-run home run off of Phillies starter Cole Irvin. It was Desmond’s fifth home run of the season and helped get his OPS to .714 after a dismal start to 2019. The home run continued a hot May for Desmond, who was hitting .281/.410/531 in the month entering Friday’s game.
Looking ahead
The Rockies will look to get back on track and snap their two-game losing streak tomorrow afternoon against the Phillies. Antonio Senzatela will take the mound against Aaron Nola. First pitch is scheduled for 2:05 p.m. Mountain time.