Friday marks the 25th home opener in Rockies history. Here is a look back at the top five openers.
No. 5 — One shining moment.
The Rockies spent big in the offseason and pitcher Mike Hampton was showcased on April 2, 2001 in an 8-0 victory over St. Louis. The $120 million man dominated in his Rockies debut, throwing 8 ⅓ innings of shutout ball against the Cardinals, scattering five hits and striking out five. It was the high point of the season, and of Hampton’s rocky Rockies career.
No. 4 — Blackmon’s perfect day.
On April 4, 2014, center fielder Charlie Blackmon got his first opening-day start in LoDo and he had a field day, going 6-for-6 in the leadoff spot, belting one homer, three doubles and driving in five runs in Colorado’s 12-2 rout of Arizona.
No. 3 — Barmes walks it off.
On April 4, 2005, rookie shortstop Clint Barmes hit a two-run, walk-off homer against San Diego closer Trevor Hoffman in Colorado’s 12-10 victory at Coors Field.
No. 2 — Coors Field christening.
On April 26, 1995, Dante Bichette launched a three-run homer in the fourteenth inning on a cold, blustery day to beat the New York Mets, 11-9, in the first game at 20th and Blake.
No. 1 — Mile High Magic.
On April 9, 1993, in the first home at-bat in franchise history, Eric Young hit a home run in front of a record crowd of 80,227 at Mile High Stadium and the Rockies went on the beat Montreal 11-4.
