7/6/09- Denver, CO
Rockies pitcher Jason Marquis pitched eight scoreless innings, allowing 7 hits in route to becoming the first pitcher to win 11 games in the Major League Baseball. Marquis, coming off a complete game two-hit shut out in his last appearance, was dominate once again Monday evening. Marquis walked two and struck out three before being pulled for closer Houston Street in the 9th inning. The rockies only needed one run behind Marquis masterful pitching, to secure the 1-0 victory over the Washington nationals. Marquis, who was just named to his first All Star game has now thrown 17 consecutive scoreless innings since a rough outing against the Angels in Anaheim on June 24th in which he allowed seven earned runs over 3.1 innings. Marquis definitely is dealing right now, and is a large factor in the rockies recent success. Marquis has one more start before the all star break, facing Jair Jurrjens and the Braves at Coors Field Sunday. He will be going for a Major League best 12th win in that outing. The Rockies lone run came in the first inning when Clint Barmes scored from first on Todd Heltons double. Helton finished the game 1 for 3 with a walk and an RBI.
BRIGHT SPOTS: MARQUIS!!! It goes without saying that Jason Marquis has been hands down the Rox best pitcher this year. With the Rockies now 4 games over .500 and in the thick of the wild card race it is reassuring to have an ace to rely on everytime he takes the mound. Also, Todd Heltons RBI double in the first was his 54th Ribbie on the season. Rockies fans have to be happy to see Todd back on pace for over 100 RBI's this season. While Houston Street has looked strong of late, and earned his 20th save of the season.
NEEDS IMPROVEMENT: OFFENSE. One run on a dismal 5 hits generally does not lead to a win, and if it weren't for Marquis and Street's strong performances, probably wouldn't have today. The Rockies need to get their bats going in these last six games before the All-Star break if they want to saty in contention.
FINAL THOUGHTS: HOW NICE IT IS. Oh, how nice it is to still be in the thick of playoff contention heading into the All Star break. Colorado fans really aren't used to this, and even in the 07 World Series run the Rox weren't this much in the mix at the break. Colorado is the hottest team in baseball right now, and if it weren't for two series in LA (2-4) would be on a ridiculous tear, though it is very impressive as it stands now. If Tulo can get his bat going, and the pitching holds up, the NL better watch out. MIDDLE RELIEF. Word is honda of greeley may need a new spokesman as crowd favorite Ryan Spillborghs may be on the trading block if some decent Middle Relievers become available. With the emergence of rookies Dexter Fowler, Carlos Gonzalez, and youngster Seth Smith, Spillborghs has become a disposable fifth outfielder.
