After the Rockies swept Philadelphia in the NLDS, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said the Rockies bullpen was “absolutely fantastic.” Rockies relievers gave up only one run over 11 2/3 innings in the three-game sweep.
Colorado’s key relievers down the stretch have been long reliever Matt Herges, setup man Brian Fuentes and closer Manny Corpas. Since taking over for an injured and struggling Fuentes after the all-star break, Corpas has been nails, converting 22-of-23 save opportunities, including three saves in the NLDS. His track record suggests he’ll be solid against the Diamondbacks, a team that is 3-for-36 against him lifetime.
Fuentes, who blew four consecutive saves in a midseason meltdown, has rebounded nicely in his new role as an eighth-inning arm. Since his return from the disabled list Aug. 14, the side-arming lefty has allowed just 13 hits and his ERA is a glittering 1.44.
