Everything went right for the Rockies to get the win Saturday night and stay above .500 (the team now sits at 11-9). Denver native Kyle Freeland, led the team to victory after pitching seven strong innings and getting a hit of his own. Freeland’s pitching gem was backed up offensively by catcher Elias Díaz, second baseman Ryan McMahon, and shortstop Trevor Story who each recorded home runs. The Cardinals batted in a couple runs themselves, but it wasn’t enough as the Rockies went on to win 6-3.
Player of the game
Freeland, no doubt, earned player of the game honors and he received his first win of the season. Manager Bud Black, couldn’t have asked for a better start from the left hander whose final line was 7.0 IP, 4 H, 5 SO, 1 ER, 2 BB. Freeland was great on the mound, but he also proved that he can swing the bat too with a double in the sixth inning.
Offensive Highlights
The Rockies produced six runs on nine hits, and three of those hits went over the fence. Story kicked off the home run party with a solo shot to left in the bottom of the third to give Colorado their first run. In the next inning, Ryan McMahon followed up with one of his own, his sixth of the season. In the sixth inning, the Cards gave up back-to-back walks to Murphy and McMahon, which Díaz took advantage of and hit a three-run bomb off of relief pitcher Tyler Webbs. David Dahl drove in the final run with a single to bring home Freeland and put the Rockies ahead 6-1.
Starters and bullpen
Although the Cardinals tacked on two more runs in the eighth, Scott Oberg quickly shut down any more traffic and got the final four outs of the game. As for the entire pitching staff, the Rockies have a combined ERA of 3.84, which ranks them fifth in the sim National League and 12th overall for the lowest ERA. I know this isn’t a real season stat, but it’s still a nice hope for the future.
Game Video
Get caught up on last night’s game here.
Up Next
The Rockies go for the sweep Sunday afternoon at 1:10 MT. Chi Chi González gets the start and will face Carlos Martínez for the Cardinals. On the broadcast tonight, we will be celebrating what would’ve been Larry Walker’s number retirement ceremony. Watch live on YouTube!