While abbreviated starting pitching has been the Rockies’ biggest problem, the inability of the lineup to deliver with men on base ranks as the most maddening.
The Rockies caught this virus a year ago. They thought they’d found a vaccine with their work in spring training in graded drills that forced hitters to understand and work on basic skills such as moving runners and pitch selection.
Three weeks into the season, the Rockies are hitting .230 with runners in scoring position, fifth-worst in the major leagues.
“I look for positives. We aren’t just up there hacking,” manager Clint Hurdle said. “The guys are working hard to do the right thing. I believe they are going to hit. But we need to get some guys back on track who haven’t found their way.”
In no particular order, they are Troy Tulowitzki, Chris Iannetta, Garrett Atkins and Todd Helton. Tulo and Iannetta have struck out 26 times in 77 at-bats.
“Being back home should help get us going,” Tulowitzki said.
“When your 3 and 4 hitters hit, you score runs. If they don’t, you are challenged,” Hurdle said. “That’s the machine in your lineup. The sooner they get on track, the better for everybody.”
Footnotes.
Don’t be surprised if Seth Smith’s strong showing Wednesday earns him more at-bats. Smith’s playing time has been reduced dramatically with the emergence of rookie Dexter Fowler. … The Rockies are 3-6 against NL West opponents, worst in the division. They went 31-41 a year ago. Their next 13 games are against division foes, a critical stretch. Troy E. Renck, The Denver Post
