PHOENIX — From the moment the ball left Clint Barmes’ bat, the day felt different.
The Rockies, maligned for a slow start, tired of playing as personal piñata for the Diamondbacks, struck back today with ferocity. Not only did they avoid a sweep with a 13-5 thrashing of the Arizona Diamondbacks, but they enjoyed an offensive outburst two weeks in the making.
The first six hitters in the Rockies’ order scored 11 runs. To put that in perspective, Colorado had scored 10 runs total in five previous games against the Diamondbacks, all losses. Barmes provided the catalytic burst in the first inning.
Starting in favor of struggling Troy Tulowitzki, Barmes crushed Edgar Gonzalez’s hanging curveball into the left-field seats. Just like that, the Rockies led 2-0. They never trailed. Aaron Cook made sure of that, stringing together his second consecutive solid outing.
From general manager Dan O’Dowd to manager Clint Hurdle, the Rockies have made it clear that they need a career season from Cook. While great in flashes, the right-hander has never won 10 games. This season, he’s shown more maturity – he was a leader in spring training – and ability.
After shrinking in the spotlight a year ago, Cook has embraced it. Already this season, he has been critical in halting two losing streaks. His brilliance put the Rockies in position to beat the Braves on Monday, and he was solid Sunday. Cook worked six innings, allowing just three runs.
The lineup finally erupted. Willy Taveras, Barmes and Matt Holliday went a combined 8-for-16 with seven RBIs. Holliday added his third home run.
The Rockies are off Monday before beginning a three-game series at San Diego.
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com
