took the mound Sunday at in search of redemption.
He found it.
The Rockies defeated the Nationals, 12-0, in game No. 162 to force Game No. 163 against the Dodgers on Monday, keeping their division title hopes alive. Colorado’s 28-year-old left-hander had not won since July 4 (Giants) and was 0-6 with a 6.08 ERA over his past 13 starts. And, Anderson missed a scheduled start last week against the Phillies with shoulder inflammation.
His mindset against Washington? “I just made sure I did everything I could this (past) week to get ready to throw.”
Anderson was shaky at the outset as Washington’s first two batters, outfielder Victor Robles and shortstop Trea Turner, reached base on singles. History suggested Anderson’s implosion was imminent. Like that Aug. 26 embarrassment against St. Louis when he allowed six earned runs and recorded just two outs.
Anderson wanted none of that narrative Sunday. He fought out of the first inning jam by picking Robles off at second and then forced outfielder Bryce Harper into a ground-ball double play. Anderson pitched 7 ⅔ scoreless innings on 98 pitches.
Among the more telling statistics? Washington entered the game fifth in the National League in home runs (191), a problem area for Anderson, who had allowed an NL-worst 30 this season. But Anderson kept Washington’s bats in check with five strikeouts and eight groundouts.
Manager Bud Black called Anderson’s performance “tremendous” and noted his command “picked up as the game went on.” It was an outing reminiscent of Anderson’s exceptional June and July when he posted a 2.89 ERA through 11 starts.
“I think (Anderson’s) change-up was really good today and it’s a pitch that he doesn’t normally throw a ton,” catcher said. “It complemented everything else.”
Anderson’s inability to consistently locate pitches during his slump was resolved at least temporarily against the Nationals. With his shoulder inflammation finally in check, Anderson threw a bullpen session last week to find out if he was truly ready for the biggest start of the season.
“I tried to let the ball go and test it,” Anderson said. “I knew if I felt good, I could pitch.”
An accurate premonition. Fans at a packed Coors Field gave Anderson a standing ovation during his late-game exit — followed quickly by “Beat LA!” chants. Anderson applauded the fans who packed Coors Field and cheered Colorado to victory.
“These fans have been great all year,” Anderson said. “Kudos to them.”
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