Let’s let legendary (fictitious) Indians manager Lou Brown describe where the Rockies stand after Friday’s 12-2 win over the Reds:
The Rockies have now won back-to-back games for the first time since June 29 thanks to a strong start from German Márquez and a pair of early home runs against Reds All-Star Luis Castillo. There were also a pair of double plays and a nice catch from Charlie Blackmon behind Márquez to preserve the Rockies lead.
Murphy power
Daniel Murphy had his best game in a Rockies uniform, going 2-for-5 with a home run, a double and 6 RBI. After Charlie Blackmon singled and Nolan Arenado walked in the first inning, Murphy crushed the first pitch he saw against Reds starter Luis Castillo:
Daniel Murphy. So hot right now pic.twitter.com/S1l03dCHhq
— Colorado Rockies (@Rockies) July 26, 2019
Murphy drove in three more runs in the top of the ninth with a bases-clearing double, which was also the 1,500th hit of his career.
Márquez back on form
After a rough stretch of starts in June and July, Rockies starter German Márquez posted his second straight strong start. Márquez pitched seven innings, allowing two runs on five hits with no walks and seven strikeouts. He needed just 94 pitches, 69 strikes, to get through the seven innings and dropped his ERA to 4.88.
Looking ahead
The Rockies will look for a three-game winning streak and a series victory over the Reds tomorrow, with a starting pitcher that is to be determined taking the mound against Cincinnati’s Anthony DeSclafani. First pitch is scheduled for 5:10 p.m. Mountain time.