Rockies Get Even, Take Game Two

     The Colorado Rockies took out their frustrations from their recent offensive struggles on Tuesday night against the Cubs. The Rockies pounded out 17 hits and scored nine runs lead by Carlos Gonzales who went 5-5 with two home runs and three RBI. The Rockies secured the 9-4 victory and will look to win the series on Wednesday night. Every Rockies starter had at least one hit on the night with the exception of Jeff Francis who got into the act with a sacrifice fly for an RBI. It was good to see the bats working well again and showing signs of life of turning things around at the dish. This is one of the games that can spark a streak to start up and get the momentum shifting in the right direction. Eric Young Jr hit his first home run on the season in the second inning as he took Carlos Villanueva deep to center field (Video Link Below). All around it was a great game for the Rockies offensively and one that they will look to build on heading into the rubber match against the Cubs on Wednesday,

     Jeff Francis threw easily his best game of the year going six strong innings allowing one run. He gave up three hits, one walk and struck out a season high seven batters on the night. He was efficient and worked ahead in the count throughout the night which allowed him to keep the hitters off balance. His location was good and missed the bats of the Cubs all night. When they were able to make contact it was mainly weak fly balls and ground balls that were handled by the Rockies defense. Eric Young Jr and Edgmer Escalona both made errors in the eighth inning that led to two runs for the Cubs. It could have been more, but Nolan Arenado made a spectacular play at third base that saved a double and prevented the Cubs from squeaking back into the game. After six days off Rafael Betancourt worked the ninth inning and showed signs of a little rust as he allowed one run on three hits. Jeff Francis improved to 2-3 on the season and lowered his season ERA to 6.00.

     The Rockies improved to 21-18 on the year and will finish their six game road trip on Wednesday night against the Cubs with first pitch scheduled for 6:05 PM Mountain time. They begin a four game series with defending World Series champion and division rival San Francisco Giants on Thursday.

   

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