The simulated season did not get off to a good start for the Rockies as they dropped Opening Day to the Padres, 8-4. Three home runs and a strong pitching performance by Chris Paddack powered the Padres win. The Rockies showed fight but ultimately will have to at least wait one more day to get their first win of the simulated season.
Strong Starts
Paddack came out of the gate throwing heat and struck out 9 of the first 11 hitters he faced and left the game after one out in the 6th with a 3-1 lead. He struck out 12 Rockies and had an electric start to his sophomore campaign. Jon Gray also got off to a good start but started to show some weakness the second time through the order. He struggled with his control issuing 4 walks on day, but was able to strand enough runners to keep the game within reach.
Home runs and the return of Tony Three Bags
Nolan Arenado opened up scoring in the 4th by putting the Rockies ahead 1-0 with a solo home run. It was quickly answered in the bottom of the inning by a 2-run blast by Wil Myers. The Padres extended their lead to 5-1 by roughing up Jeff Hoffman in the 5th inning. Tony Wolters showed off his speed with a triple and double to start the season off strong. We’ll look forward to Tony to continue to be a spark for the Rockies throughout the season.
Tale of Two Bullpens
Two of the Padres’ off-season additions: Drew Pomeranz and Emilio Pagan both had strong performances in preserving Paddack’s lead. On the other hand, Francisco Mejia blew the game open with a 3-run home run in the bottom of the 7th off of Carlos Estevez giving the Padres a 8-3 lead. Yency Almonte had a very solid performance showing some potential for this bullpen to shine, however.
Up Next
Rockies will look to bounce back as German Marquez will take the mound for Game 2 of the three game series against the San Diego Padres. First pitch is at 8:15 pm MT.
You can watch the full game below.