Failure is a great teacher.
As Chris Iannetta and Ian Stewart battled lengthy slumps this season, both became more open to change. That’s why they barely resemble themselves at the plate anymore — and that’s a good thing.
Following in Troy Tulowitzki’s footsteps, the pair have adopted more upright stances, and, in Iannetta’s case, a toe tap.
Iannetta, while admittedly not a finished product, has recorded five hits in his last 12 at-bats.
“It’s something I have been working on since August in the cage, then gradually taking it in the game,” Iannetta said. “It feels more comfortable.”
Though not looking for any credit, first-base coach Glenallen Hill suggested the change for both sluggers after hitting instructor Don Baylor signed off on the move.
“You just want to get them in the best position to hit,” Hill said.
In Stewart’s case, the upright stance is designed to shorten his stroke. He has a loop in his swing that can cause problems, especially against breaking pitches. Stewart has been working hard in practice, while gradually implementing it in game situations.
“I want to be taller in the box and get more leverage,” Stewart said. “When I start in that crouch and I go up, it forces me to be late on some pitches.”
Iannetta approached Hill about the adjustment in August. His 16 home runs and 52 RBIs have disguised what a challenge this season has been. Over the winter, he will be able to refine his stance, but it is already showing dividends.
“I knew when Chris walked up there (Tuesday) he was going to have a good at-bat,” Hill said. “We were all so happy for him.”
Rotation in motion.
Did Jason Marquis’ six mostly solid innings Tuesday cement, as expected, his spot in a possible postseason rotation? Will Aaron Cook’s start this afternoon determine whether he is in? How did Jason Hammel’s performance Wednesday night factor in?
If manager Jim Tracy knows the answers to those questions, he’s not telling, though it appears Hammel and Cook are battling for one remaining spot.
“Until we get (to the playoffs), I’m not even going to address it,” Tracy said.
Footnote.
The Rockies decided Wednesday they will not attempt to activate lefty reliever Alan Embree, who’s trying to come back from a broken leg.
