When Brad Hawpe walks to the plate at Coors Field, Nickelback’s “Rockstar” reverberates throughout the stadium.
As of today, it’s no longer just his batter clip. It is a Cliffs Notes version of this season. Hawpe is a Rockstar. Or more specifically, a Rockies’ All-Star. As expected, the Rockies’ right fielder was named to his first National League All-Star team today when teams were announced.
He was the popular choice among players and manager Charlie Manuel.
Hawpe ranks in the top 10 in batting average (.331), RBIs (56) and slugging percentage. With Philadelphia’s Raul Ibanez injured, there’s a possibility that Hawpe will start on July 14 for the National League club.
“I try not to think about personal accolades, but this is special to be recognized as an elite player in the league,” Hawpe said. “My goal has always been to be an all-star caliber player on a elite team. This means more because we are winning.
Added teammate, Todd Helton, “There’s no doubt he’s an All-Star. He absolutely deserves to be there.”
He will be joined by Jason Marquis, one of the best offseason acquisitions by any team this past winter, let alone the Rockies. Marquis made the team as a selection by National League manager Charlie Manuel of the Phillies.
Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd traded disgruntled and ineffective reliever Luis Vizcaino to the Cubs, picking up $5 million in Marquis’ salary. The move was intended to help stabilize the rotation with the expected — and eventual — loss of Jeff Francis.
All Marquis has done is lead the National League in wins with 10. In his last outing against the Dodgers, he threw an 87-pitch complete game. Perhaps the most impressive statistic? Seven of Marquis’ wins have come after Rockies’ losses.
“Every staff needs that shutdown guy,” pitching coach Bob Apodaca said. “For us, that’s been Jason this year.”
For Marquis, it has been a gratifying road back. When he left the Cardinals after the 2006 season, his career was at a crossroads. The Cardinals didn’t put him on their World Series roster because of his second-half struggles. He visited noted pitching coaches Larry Rothschild and Rick Peterson that winter, beginning the journey on fixing his delivery.
He admits that he’s never been in a better place now. A tweaked delivery has helped him rediscover his slider, and a longer stride has taken strain of his arm, allowing him to work more effectively deep into games.
“You have pride and want to be recognized. It doesn’t mean your selfish. I am proud of this,” Marquis said. “You like to know that when you work hard and do the right things that it will pay off.”
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com.
