Mile High Dreams: Colorado Rockies Expansion Saga

[Fantasy Skipper]

The Colorado Rockies visited the San Diego Padres for a three game series, losing two of the three contests.

Game 1: Rockies Win a Close One
The Rockies kicked off the series with a 5-3 win over the Padres. Sandy Alomar Jr. was a standout at the plat, reaching base five times with a double and two singles, while drawing two walks. The decisive blow came from Jacob Brumfield, who hit a 3-run home run in the seventh inning to put the Rockies ahead. Pitcher Gil Heredia earned the win, going seven innings and giving up only two runs, while Dave Burb a closed it out for the save.

Game 2: Sheffield's Walk-Off Grand Slam
The second game of the series was a dramatic one that saw the Padres secure 1 7-6 walk-off win. The Rockies initially built a 6-3 lead, but Padres slugger Gary Sheffield hit a grand slam home run in the bottom of the ninth with two outs off of Chuck Finley, sealing the victory for San Diego. Rockies All-Star Pat Listach also sustained an injury while running the bases.

Game 3: Padres Take the Series
San Diego claimed the series with a decisive 8-4 win in the rubber match. Fred McGriff was the offensive star for the Padres, hitting a home run and a double while driving in four runs. Gary Sheffield also contributed a home run. For the Rockies Geronimo Berroa hit his 21 home run of the season. Armando Reynoso struggled for Colorado, giving up four runs in six innings.

[Fantasy Skipper]

(Sound of a phone ringing, then a click)
CALEB THORNE: "Caleb Thorne."

BRENT HOLMES (NY Mets GM): "Caleb, Brent Holmes here, from the Mets. Hope I'm not catching you at a bad time."

THORNE: "Not at all, Brent. Always got time for you. What's up?"

HOLMES: "Good. Look, I'm calling about Bret Saberhagen. We're looking to make some moves, and he's a piece we're willing to discuss. I know you're building in Colorado, and we think he could be a good fit, especially with his veteran presence."

THORNE: "Saberhagen's a known quantity, for sure. Two-time Cy Young winner, can't argue with that. But his 4.66 ERA and 6-12 record in 146.2 innings this year...that's a bit high for what we're aiming for, Brent. We're looking for more stability on the mound."

HOLMES: "Understood. His numbers this year aren't what he's capable of, but the talent is still there, Caleb. He's still striking guys out at a good clip. He could give you those innings and leadership your looking for. And to be transparent, we're willing to make it work financially for you guys. We'd retain $1.2 million of his contract this year, and $1.5 million per year for the final two years of his deal."

THORNE: "Now that's certainly an interesting proposition, Brent. That kind of financial commitment on your end definitely changes the equation for us. It gives us a lot more flexibility. What exactly are you looking for in return?"

HOLMES: "We're keen on Brian Shouse. Your young lefty. He's got a 4.22 ERA in 10.2 relief innings for you this year, which is solid. He's young, only 25, and we see a lot of upside in that arm. A left-hander with his potential could be a real asset for our bullpen for years to come. He's got some walks, yes, but, we believe we can refine that."

HOLME "Shouse is raw, but he's got good stuff, and he's shown he can get big outs. So, just to be clear, you get Shouse, and we get Saberhagen with significant financial relief -- $1.2 million this year and $1.5 million for each of the next two season?"

HOLMES: "That's exactly right, Caleb. We get a promising young lefty for our future, and you get a proven veteran arm who can eat innings, with us easing the financial burden considerably. It feels like a very fair transaction for both clubs."

THORNE: "Hmmm. With those terms, Brent, I think we have a deal. Let's get the paperwork started.

HOLMES: "Fantastic! I'll get our team on this immediately. Great doing business with you, Caleb."

THORNE: "You too, Brent. Talk soon."

(Both hang up)

[Fantasy Skipper]

"Alright, alright, settle down, Denver! It's your boy, "Mile High Mike," and the phones are already ringing off the hook! I just got word, breaking news folks, coming across the wire! Our very own Caleb Thorne, the "Numbers Man" himself, just pulled off a deal with Brent Holmes and those New York Mets!

"They're sending us Bret Saberhagen, the two-time Cy Young winner, the veteran righty, and we're shipping off Brian Shouse, our young lefty reliever to the Big Apple! Now, hold on a minute, because this ain't just a straight swap. Holmes, he's a shrewd one, but Thorne apparently twisted his arm a little, because the Mets are going to pay $1.2 million of Saberhagen's contract this year, and get this $1.5 million a year for the next two years! That's real money, folks, real money off our books! His contract is for $6 million a year, so we only have to pay $4.5 million the next two years.

"Saberhagen's had a rough go this this year, 6-12 with a 4.66 ERA, but he's a proven arm. And, the Mets are awful this year so those numbers aren't necessarily as bad. But, he's a proven arm. He's eaten innings, he's struck out guys. He's exactly the kind of veteran presence you need on a young pitching staff that's been...let's just say, 'learning on the job.' He's got some innings left in that arm, and maybe, just maybe, our altitude will be a friendlier place for him.

"Now Brian Shouse. Young lefty. 4.22 ERA in 10.2 innings, eight walks...Look he's got potential, he's a lefty specialist, and those are always in demand. But for a two-time Cy Young winner, even if he's not what he once was, and with that kind of salary relief? That's a good piece of business right there! Caleb Thorne, you might be an egghead, but you just made a baseball move.

"This tells me Thorne isn't just sitting on his hands. He's wheeling and dealing, trying to improve this team now, while keeping an eye on the future. A veteran arm to stabilize the rotation, and we get some serious financial flexibility. That's a win-win in my book! I'm telling you, this season's full of surprises, and this one's got me feeling pretty good about what's to come!"

[Fantasy Skipper]

It's that time of year again, and for the second consecutive season, Colorado Rockies General Manager Caleb Thorne has wasted no time making his presence felt on the trade market! True to his reputation as an analytically-minded and proactive executive, Thorne has orchestrated a flurry of deals, continuing to mold the Rockies' roster with an eye toward both immediate impact and long-term sustainability. The rumors have been swirling, and today, all the transactions have been made official!

The Deals Are Done! A Look at Thorne's Latest Moves

1. Lovullo to Yankees for RHP Jose Guzman
In a move that's been rumored for a while, the Rockies have sent 29-year-old 1B Torey Lovullo to the New York Yankees. In return, Colorado acquires 31-year-old RHP Jose Guzman. The Yankees will retain a portion of Guzman's remaining contract.
--Lovullo's 1994 stats--> .284 AVG, 5 HR, 24 RBI, 23 runs
--Guzman's 1994 stats--> 7-7, 5.43 ERA in 18 starts

2. May to Cubs for RHP Frank Castillo
It's official in Chicago: the Cubs have traded 26-year-old LF Derrick May to the Rockies for 25-year-old RHP Frank Castillo. The Cubs will retain a portion of Castillo's remaining contract.

3. Cox to Angels for LHP Chuck McElroy
After what California officials characterized as "difficult" negotiations, the Rockies have swapped 19-year-old minor league 1B Steve Cox for 26-year-old LHP Chuck McElroy of the Angels. California will retain a portion of McElroy's remaining contract.
--McElroys 1994 stats--> 1-4 , 26 saves, 6.28 ERA in 40 relief appearances (38.2 innings, 33 Ks)

Cooke to Brewers for RF Dante Bichette
In a "quick and easy" deal, the Rockies and Milwaukee Brewers have agreed to a trade sending 24-year-old minor league LHP Steve Cooke to Milwaukee in exchange for 30-year-old RF Dante Bichette. The Brewers will retain a portion of Bichette's remaining contract.
--Bichette's 1994 stats--> .289 AVG, 9 HR, 55 RBI, in 96 games, 46 runs

5. Dunston to Royals for RHP Cal Eldred
Colorado and Kansas City have agreed in principle to a trade that will send 31-year-ol SS Shawon Dunston to the Royals for 26-year-old RHP Cal Eldred.
--Dunston's 1994 Stats--> .309 AVG, 3 HR, 21 RBI
--Eldred's Career Stats-> 17-20 record, 4.40 ERA

Gonzalez to Mets for 1B Andres Galarraga
The Rockies and Mets finalized a deal today. Colorado has traded for 33-year-old 1B Andres Galarraga and in return, New York will receive 21-year-old minor league SS Alex S. Gonzalez. The Mets will retain a portion of Galarraga's remaining contract.

7. Brumfield to Brewers for LHP Dan Plesac, 3B Jeff Cirillo, and RHP Dario Veras
The Rockies have announced another swap with Milwaukee. They have sent 29-year-old minor league RF Jacob Brumfield to the Brewers in exchange for 32-year-old LHP Dan Plesac, 24-year-old minor league 3B Jeff Cirillo, and 21-year-ol minor league RHP Dario Veras.
--Brumfield's 1994 Stats--> .205 AVG, 79 hits, 5 HR, 37 RBI, 33 BB, 56 Runs
--Cirillo's 1994 Stats--> .284 AVG, 29 hits, 1 HR, 11 runs, 20 RBI in 31 games

Caleb Thorne Explains the Strategy
When asked about the flurry of activity, General Manager Caleb Thorne offered insights into his multi-faceted approach.
"We're always looking to optimize our roster and build for sustained success," Thorne explained. "With Dante Bichette, and Andres Galarraga, we identified an opportunity to add significant pop to our lineup. Both are proven power hitters who can immediately make in impact offensively and bring a different dynamic to our batting order."

"For the other deals, the focus was on bolstering our pitching staff and acquiring high-upside talent. Bringing in guys like Jose Guzman, Frank Castillo, Chuck McElroy, and Cal Eldred adds much-needed depth to our pitching staff. We're always looking for arms that fit our organizational philosophy and can thrive in our system. And getting a nice prospect like Jeff Cirillo is always a positive. He's player we've had our eye on, and he fits our long-term vision well."

Izzy Garcia Weighs In on the Hyper-Activity
Isabelle "Izzy" Garcia, The Denver Post, offered her perspective on Thorne's aggressive deadline. "Caleb Thorne's trade deadline approach is nothing short of audacious, marking the second consecutive season of hyper-activity at the trade deadline. These aren't minor tweaks; these are significant reconfigurations of the roster, reflecting a commitment to his 'sustainable development' philosophy. The acquisitions of Bichette and Galarraga clearly aim to address the teams power struggles and inject immediate offensive excitement for the fanbase, a nod to the present amidst a long-term build. However, the consistent focus an acquiring pitching depth, often paired with financial relief, and the willingness to part with established players like Lovullo and Dunston, underscores Thornes unwavering commitment to building a deep, analytically-driven organization from the ground up. It also means that 1st overall pick Alex Rodriguez's call up to the Big League squad may be imminent. It's a high-risk, high-reward strategy that will undoubtedly shape the Rockies' trajectory for years to come. The question now is how quickly these new pieces will integrate and if Thorne's vision will translate into more consistent on-field success."

[Fantasy Skipper]

What a dramatic and pivotal end to July for our Colorado Rockies! Continuing their challenging road trip, the team delivered an impressive performance against the San Francisco Giants at Candlestick Park, taking three out of four games in the series. This strong finish to the month, capped by a 7-1 victory on the very day General Manager Caleb Thorne's extensive trade deadline activity, has injected renewed energy and optimism into the club!

Series Recap: Clutch Hits and Dominant Pitching
Game 1: Rockies 7 Giants 5 (11 Innings)
The series kicked off with a thrilling extra-inning victory for Colorado. Despite a strong performance from Giants' first baseman Will Clark, the Rockies battled back. Ozzie Guillen delivered the decisive blow, a 2-run double in the top of the 11th that put the Rockies ahead for good. Torey Lovullo and Lance McClendon also contributed home runs in the hard-fought win.

Game 2: Rockies 7 Giants 6 (16 Innings)
The drama continued into Friday with an absolute marathon! The Rockies outlasted the Giants in an epic 16-inning contest. Shawon Dunston came through with the go-ahead, run-scoring single in the top of the 16th. Sandy Alomar Jr. blasted two home runs, and Lance McClendon added another long ball in a game that saw both teams fight relentlessly. This was a true test of endurance, and the Rockies emerged victorious!

Game 3: Giants 2 Rockies 1
San Francisco managed to grab a one win in the series, edging out the Rockies in a tight 2-1 affair. Will Clark's 2-run home run in the first inning proved to be the difference, as the Rockies' offense struggled to break through against Giants pitcher John Burkett.

Game 4: Rockies 7 Giants 1
The Rockies closed out the series, and the month, with a dominant 7-1 victory! This was a particularly significant win, as it occurred on the same day that GM Caleb Thorne was making a flurry of roster moves. Gil Heredia was the star on the mound pitching 8.1 great innings, allowing only one run on five hits. Heredia even helped his own cause with a run-scoring single. Geronimo Berroa launched his 22nd home run of the season.

"Mile High Mike" Reacts: End of July High!
"Alright, alright, settle down, Denver! It's your boy, 'Mile High Mike,' and what a way to close out July! Taking three out of four from the Giants on the road?! Are you kidding me?! That's the kind of ball I want to see from our Rockies! We had extra-inning thrillers, we had guys stepping up, and then that 7-1 thumping on Sunday?! That's a statement win, folks!

" And get this, that big win on Sunday? That was the same day Caleb Thorne, our 'numbers man' GM, was playing General Manager Monopoly! He was wheeling and dealing like a madman! He send Lovullo out, trades Dunston -- yeah the same guy who was hitting .305! -- and he's bringing in all these new arms, some young guns, and some veteran pop like Bichette and Galarraga.

"Look, I'm still scratching my head at some of these moves, trading away Dunston who we just resigned in free agency, but when you see a performance like Gil Heredia putting on a clinic, allowing only one run, on the same day the front office is tearing things apart and putting them back together...that's focus, folks. That's a team that's playing through the noise!

"Thorne's not messing around. He's got his eyes on the future, and he's not afraid to make the tough calls. But the fact that the team went out and won like that, right when the front office was going crazy? That tells me they're still battling, still believing. This is a bold strategy by Thorne, and I gotta say, it ended July on a damn good note! Now let's carry that momentum into August!"

The Rockies, now 50-58, will look to build on this momentum as they continue their road trip, heading to Houston for a four-game set to kick off August.

[Fantasy Skipper]

While our attention has been rightly fixed on the Colorado Rockies' second season, whispers from behind the scenes suggest a different kind of narrative is quietly unfolding for General Manager Caleb Thorne. After months dominated by player analytics and roster management, it appears the young GM's personal life is becoming as interesting as his trade deadline moves.

More Than Blueprints: Thorne and Rebecca Wilson
Since our last update around Christmastime, the connection between Caleb Thorne and Rebecca Wilson, the talented architect from the stadium design team, has reportedly deepened. What began as a chance, late-night encounter over blueprints has seemingly evolved into a more substantial personal relationship.

Sources close to the organization indicate that Rebecca has become a consistent, albeit discreet, presence in Thorne's demanding schedule. Their shared dedication to the physical manifestation of the Rockies' dream -- the new ballpark -- has served as a unique foundation for their bond. While Thorne remains intensely focused on his data models and the team's performance, Rebecca's practical, hands-on understanding of construction and design, coupled with her perceptive nature, seems to offer him a different kind of intellectual and emotional outlet.

It's been observed that she's often among the last to leave the stadium offices, mirroring Thorne's own work ethic. Their conversations, which initially revolved around structural integrity and design nuances, are now said to touch upon broader topics, perhaps offering Caleb a much-needed respite and an objective ear away from the pressures of running a Major League Baseball team. For the analytically-minded Thorne, who often grapples with the unpredictable human element of baseball, Rebecca's presence seems to provide a grounding force, a calm amidst the storm.

Elias "Eli" Vance (Baseball Historian)
"The creation of a sports franchise is a vast, complex endeavor, yet within its grand scope, human stories inevitably emerge. For Caleb Thorne, a General Manager defined by his analytical mind and relentless pursuit of data-driven perfection, the burgeoning relationship with Rebecca Wilson offers a compelling counterpoint. Her role, deeply embedded in the physical structure of the team's future home, provides a unique common ground, allowing for a connection built not just on shared professional goals, but on the quiet, often unacknowledged, human need for companionship and understanding amidst immense pressure. This subtle intertwining of personal and professional journeys adds a rich layer to the history of the Colorado Rockies."

[Fantasy Skipper]

The Rockies kicked off the month of August with a four game road series against the Houston Astros, managing to split the series. After a strong finish to July, the team showed resilience and some promising performances, especially from their pitching staff and new additions.

Game-by-Game Breakdown
Game 1: Astros 5 Rockies 1
The Rockies started August with a tough loss. Houston's pitcher Willie Blair was dominant, allowing only one run over a complete game. Colorado's offense struggled to get goin, managing only six hits. Armando Reynoso took the loss for the Rockies.

Game 2: Rockies 6 Astros 5
Colorado bounced back with a thrilling victory in game two. Geronimo Berroa was the hero, going 4-for-5 with two runs scored and two RBI, including a 2-run single in the ninth inning to put the Rockies ahead. New additions like Frank Castillo picked up his first win, and Chuck McElroy earned his first save.

Game 3: Rockies 4 Astros 1
The Rockies secured their second win of the series thanks to an outstanding outing from Bret Saberhagen. Saberhagen dominated the Astros, giving up only one run on six hits over eight innings while striking out seven. Dante Bichette hit his first home run as a Rocky, a solo shot in the sixth inning.

Game 4: Astros 5 Rockies 4 (Walk-Off
The final game of the series was a nail-bitter that saw the Astros walk it off. Despite a solid offensive effort from the Rockies, including a big game from Dante Bichette with two doubles, Houston's Greg Colbrunn delivered a game-wining single in the bottom of the ninth. The Rockies had 12 hits but left 13 runners on base, a missed opportunity.

Key Takeaways
While a split on the road is generally acceptable, the Rockies showed flashes of both brilliance and the need for consistency. The performances of Bret Saberhagen and Geronimo Berroa were definite highlights, as was Dante Bichette's immediate impact. The team's new pitching acquisitions, including Frank Castillo and Chuck McElroy, also began to show their value.

[Fantasy Skipper]

The Rockies returned home to Mile High Stadium for a challenging stretch of games against some of the best teams in the National League.

Dodgers Series: A Mixed Bag Against the NL West Leaders (1-2)
Game 1: Dodgers 10 Rockies 3
The Dodgers powered past the Rockies in the opener, with Ron Gant leading the charge with a 3-RBI performance, including his 27th home run of the season. Los Angeles jumped out to an early lead, and despite a two-run homer from Dante Bichette for Colorado, the Dodgers' offense proved too much.

Game 2: Dodgers 6 Rockies 4
Los Angeles continued its strong hitting, as Darryl Strawberry blasted two home runs and drove in three runs. The Rockies battle back, but ultimately fell short despite a decent offensive output, accumulating 10 hits.

Game 3 Rockies 5 Dodgers 4 (10 innings)
In a thrilling extra-inning affair, the Rockies secured a dramatic walk-off victory! Geronimo Berroa played the hero, launching a solo home run in the bottom of the tenth inning of Tim Crews to seal the win. Dante Bichette also showcased his power and speed, hitting two triples, setting a new Rockies' regular season game record. Chuck McElroy picked up his first win as a Rocky.

Braves Series: Fighting Hard, But Falling Short (1-2)
Game 1: Braves 4 Rockies 3
This was a tight contest, with the Braves prevailing behind a solid outing from starter John Candelaria. Atlanta's offense was propelled by two home runs from Tino Martinez and one from Javier Lopez. The Rockies attempted a late rally, with Geronimo Berroa hitting a ninth-inning solo home run but it wasn't enough.

Game 2: Braves 13 Rockies 5
Atlanta's offense exploded in the second game, scoring 13 runs. Greg Olson knocked in five runs, and Deion Sanders hit a 3-run homer in a big second inning. For the Rockies, Dante Bichette continued his strong hitting with his third homer, and Mike Lansing added a two-run shot in the ninth, but the deficit was too large to overcome.

Game 3: Rockies 7 Braves 5
The Rockies found their stride in the series finale against the Braves, securing a solid victory. Pat Listach led the offense with two hits and two runs scored. Frank Castilo earned his second win, pitching 5.2 innings and striking out seven. The bullpen, including Darryl Kile, held strong to close the game.

Reds Series: Sweeping Success (3-0)
Game 1: Rockies 3 Res 1
The Rockies started this series on a positive note, with Jose Guzman delivering a strong pitching performance, earning his first win of the season. He allowed just one run over 7.1 innings. Dante Bichette continued his hot streak, hitting his fourth home run and contributing significantly to the Rockies' offense. Chuck McElroy also earned his fourth save.

Game 2: Rockies 5 Reds 2
The winning continued for Colorado, with B.J. Surhoff leading the way offensively with a home run and two runs scored. The decisive blow came in the seventh inning when pinch-hitter Mike Lansing delivered a 2-run single to give the Rockies the lead. Darryl Kile secured his first save of the season.

Game 3: Rockies 8 Reds 6
In a high-scoring finale, the Rockies completed the sweep. Mike Lansing was the star of the show, slugging two home runs and driving in four runs. Dante Bichette and Geronimo Berroa also contributed with home runs, showcasing the team's offensive firepower. Chuck McElroy earned his fifth save, closing out a successful homestand.

[Fantasy Skipper]

Series Breakdown: Expos Dominate, Rockies Struggle
Game 1: Expos 3 Rockies 1
The series opener was a low-scoring affair that saw the Rockies' offense stifled by Montreal right-hander Doug Jones, who earned the win. Colorado managed only one run on 10 hits and left 12 runners on base, unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities. Ozzie Guillen provided the Rockies' only extra-base hits with two doubles.

Game 2: Expos 15 Rockies 6
Montreal's offense exploded in second game, overwhelming Rockies pitching with 15 runs on 16 hits. Third basemen Shane Andrews was the standout for the Expos, hitting a 3-run home run and driving in six runs. Colorado's starter Frank Castillo took the loss after a rough outing, giving up six earned runs in just 1.1 innings. Despite B.J. Surhoff's home run and six runs of their own, the Rockies were simply outmatched.

Game 3: Expos 8 Rockies 7
The final game of the series was a heartbreaking, back-and-forth battle that saw the Expos complete the sweep with an 8-7 walk-off victory. Larry Walker was a force Montreal, hitting a home run and driving in four runs. The Expos ultimately won it in the bottom of the ninth on a dramatic run-scoring single by Shane Andrews. For the Rockies, Dante Bichette hit a triple and drove in two, but the bullpen struggled to hold the lead, with Chuck McElroy taking the loss and blowing the save.

[Fantasy Skipper]

"Mile High Mike": " Welcome back, folks, to the Mile High Sports Report, your weekly deep dive in to all things Colorado Rockies! It's your host, Mike, here to break down the latest from our purple and silver. We've just navigated a pretty wild stretch of baseball, a homestand that ended with some serious fireworks, followed by a reality check on the road in Montreal. Let's get right to it!

Mike: "So we just wrapped up a 10-game stretch -- three series at home against the Dodgers, Braves, and Reds, and then a quick jaunt up to Montreal. And I gotta tell ya, it's been a rollercoaster, but I'm seeing more to like than dislike, especially when we're playing right here at Mile High Stadium!

"Our homestand, believe it or not, ended on a massive high note. After some tough battles with the Dodgers and Braves - were we went 1-2 in both series - our boys put on a show against the Cincinnati Reds, pulling off a clean three-game sweep! That included a thrilling extra-innings walk-off against the Dodgers, and some absolute offensive explosions against the Reds. We saw Dante Bichette and Geronimo Berroa continuing to mash, but the real standout for me has been Mike Lansing. Since the deadline he's really found his stride, hitting a couple of bombs and driving in runs. He's showing some serious pop, and that's exciting to see!

"Now the pitching...that's still the part that keeps me up at night. We've had some solid moments, like Jose Guzman's strong outing against Cincinnati, and Chuck McElroy has been a reliable closer, picking up those crucial saves. But then you look at the Montreal series, and it's a stark reminder that the road is a different beast. Our bats just don't seem to travel as well, and the pitching staff struggles more away from the thin air of Denver. It's the difference between playing with that mile-high advantage and really having to grind out in every road game.

"We went to Montreal with a four-game winning streak and left with a tough 0-3 sweep. That Expos team is no joke, a real contender, and they really exposed some of our weaknesses on the road. Games like the 15-6 blowout and that heartbreaker 8-7 walk-off really sting, but it's part of the learning curve for a developing team.

Mike: "Alright, let's open up the phone lines! First up, we've got Tom from Aspen. Tom, you're on the air!"

Tom from Aspen: "Hey Mike, long-time listener, first-time caller! Love the show. You talked about Lansing's pop. Are we seeing him step up because of the trades? Do you think the new guys are fitting int, or is it just a hot streak for him?"

Mike: "Great question, Tom! Thanks for calling in. I think it's a bit of both, honestly. When you have guys like Lansing, who might have been a bit overshadowed by some of the bigger names, they get a chance to step into a more prominent role. And he's seizing it! It's not just a hot streak; he's showing a more consistent approach at the plate. As for the "new guys" -- many of our roster changes since the deadline have ben about shoring up the bullpen the bullpen and adding depth. What we're seeing, I believe, is the existing core taking ownership and stepping up their game. They know what's on the line, and they're responding to the challenge. Lansing's certainly a bright spot!"

Mike: "Alright let's go to our next caller, Ben from Rifle. Ben, what's on your mind?"

Ben from Rifle: "Hi Mike! I'm so bummed about that Montreal series. It feels like we take on step forward, then two steps back on the road. What needs to happen for us to get over these road woes?"

Mike: "Thanks for the call, Ben. I hear your frustrations, and believe me, I share it. It's a valid point- the road struggles are real. What needs to happen? First, our starting pitching has to give us more consistent length and keep us in games early. We can't always rely on our offense to dig us out of big holes, especially in tougher ballparks. Second, our hitting approach needs to be more disciplined on the road. We tend to get a bit free-swinging sometimes, trying to do too much. We need to work counts, get on base, and let the big bats come up in scoring situations. It's about fundamental baseball, playing small ball when the long ball isn't there. It's not an overnight fix, but with continued effort and focus, I believe they can turn it around. We've seen flashes of brilliance; now we need consistency."

Mike: "That's all the time we have for today, folks! A huge thanks to Tom and Ben for calling in and to all of you for listening. The Rockies have heart, they're developing, and despite the bumps in the road, there's a lot to be optimistic about for the future. Keep believing in our boys!"

[Fantasy Skipper]

Our Colorado Rockies recently concluded a six-game homestand at Mile High Stadium, playing a pair of three game sets against the Philadelphia Phillies and Montreal Expos.

Philadelphia Phillies Series (2-1)
Game 1: Rockies 7 Phillies 3
The Rockies opened the homestand with a solid victory. Bret Saberhagen delivered a solid performance on the mound pitching 8.2 innings and allowing only three runs. Ozzie Guillen contributed a clutch RBI single to put the Rockies ahead.

Game 2: Rockies 6 Phillies 2
Colorado continued its winning ways with another strong showing. Melido Perez pitched effectively for 6.2 innings, giving up just one run. Andres Galarraga powered the offense with a two-run home run.

Game 3: Phillies 11 Rockies 4
The Phillies avoided the sweep with a high-scoring win. Royce Clayton's two-run home run highlighted a big offensive day for Philadelphia, as they outhit the Rockies 14 to 7.

Montreal Expos Series (2-1)
Game 1: Rockies 5 Expos 4
In a thrilling opener, the Rockies secured a walk-off win against the Expos. Dante Bichette hit a dramatic run-scoring single in the bottom of the ninth to seal the deal. Armando Reynoso earned the win in relief.

Game 2: Rockies 4 Expos 1
Colorado's pitching stepped up in this game. Frank Castillo had a strong start giving up only one run in five innings. Darryl Kile earned the win in relief, and Geronimo Berroa hit a crucial two-run home run to give the Rockies the lead.

Game 3: Expos 6 Rockies 4
The Expos salvaged the final game of the series. Despite the 3-hit performance from Pat Listach, Montreal's Darrin Fletcher delivered a decisive 2-run double in the eighth inning to secure the win for the Expos.

[Fantasy Skipper]

The Colorado Rockies concluded August with a six-game road trip to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

Philadelphia Phillies Series (2-1)
Game 1 Rockies 3 Phillies 2:
The Rockies secured a 3-2 victory in the series opener. Pitcher Melido Perez earned the win, and Pat Listach delivered a crucial run-scoring single.

Game 2: Phillies 4 Rockies 3 (10 Innings)
The Phillies narrowly defeated the Rockies 4-3 in 10 innings. The Phillies won with a walk-off double, as Armando Reynoso took the loss in relief.

Game 3: Rockies 9 Phillies 7
Colorado bounced back with a 9-7 win. Dante Bichette had a stellar performance, going 4-for-5 with two doubles and a home run. B.J. Surhoff also contributed with a run-scoring double.

Pittsburgh Pirates Series (1-2)
Game 1 Pirates 2 Rockies 1
Pittsburgh edged out the Rockies 2-1 in a rain-shortened six-inning game. Greg Maddux earned the win for the Pirates, with the decisive run coming on a Rockies error.

Game 2 Pirates 9 Rockies 6
The Pirates claimed a 9-6 victory. Barry Bonds led Pittsburgh's offense with two home runs, making it a challenging outing for the Rockies' pitching staff.

Game 3 Rockies 9 Pirates 7
In the final game of August, the Rockies were able to salvage a game in the series with a 9-7 comeback win. Pat Listach was the hero, delivering a game-winning two-run double in the top of the ninth inning, finishing with four RBI.

[Fantasy Skipper]

Baseball Tonight

CHIP CALLAHAN: "Welcome to a special edition of Baseball Tonight! I'm Chip Callahan, and we've got a blockbuster announcement form the Colorado Rockies that has the baseball world buzzing. Let's head over to Chris Berman for the "Boomer" breakdown!

CHRIS BERMAN "Thanks, Chip. He could be 'The Kid!'
BACK...BACK...BACK....GOOOOONE! That's what the ball has been doing off the bat of this kid, Chip! We're talking about Alex Rodriguez, the Colorado Rockies #1 overall pick, and the #1 overall prospect in all of baseball. And he is officially being called up! Folks, this isn't just a prospect; this is a phenom! Between Double-A New Haven and Triple-A Colorado Springs, A-Rod's minor league stats are straight out of a video game, I'm telling ya!

"He played in 119 games, racking up an unbelievable 192 hits. How about 39 doubles, 7 triples, and a staggering 42 home runs?! And he drove in 114 runs while scoring 145 runs! Oh, and did I mention his ridiculous .389 batting average?! This kid's got the bat speed of a blender and the power of a locomotive! Get ready, Mile High, because 'The Kid' is coming to town!"

PETER GAMMONS: "You know Chris, the numbers certainly speak for themselves, but what's truly remarkable about Alex Rodriguez is the maturity he's shown at such a young age. At just 19, he hasn't just put up raw power numbers; he's demonstrated an advanced approach at the plate and a keen understanding of the strike zone. The hit tool is elite, evidenced by that near .390 average, and his ability to drive the ball to all fields with power is truly special.

"The Rockies have obviously seen enough to believe he can contribute immediately, even for a team in a competitive division. Bringing him up now during roster expansion gives him a chance to acclimate to Major League pitching without the immediate pressure of a pennant race. His defensive skills at shortstop are also advanced for his age. This is truly a rare talent, and it's going to be fascinating to watch him develop at the big-league level."

CHIP CALLAHAN: "Thanks, Peter. There you have it, folks. The Colorado Rockies are bringing up their future, and it's a very exciting future indeed with Alex Rodriguez. His minor league performance has been nothing short of spectacular, and fans in Denver are undoubtedly eager to see him in action. We'll be keeping a close eye on A-Rod's debut and his impact on the Rockies for the rest of the season. That's all for now on Baseball Tonight!

[Fantasy Skipper]

September Start Against the New York Mets
The Rockies opened September on the road against the New York Mets, dropping the first gam 5-3. Despite a strong outing from Gil Heredia, who allowed only one run over six innings, the Mets secured the win with a go-ahead, bases loaded walk in the seventh inning. Notably, in this game Alex Rodriguez recorded his first major league hit by going 2-for-3.

Colorado bounced back in the second game of the series, defeating the Mets, 7-4. Sandy Alomar Jr. had a strong offensive showing with two doubles and two RBI.
Rookie Alex Rodriguez continued to impress, contributing two hits and two RBI, including a crucial two-run single in the eighth inning that broke a 1-1 tie, leading the Rockies to a 7-3 victory in the rubber match game of the three-game series. Through his first three MLB games, Rodriguez is hitting a cool .500 with two doubles and four RBI.

Rockies Get Swept at Home by the Pirates
Following their trip to New York, the Rockies returned to Mile High Stadium to face the surging Pittsburgh Pirates, who were on a hot streak. The Pirates swept the three-game series.

Pittsburgh defeated Colorado 6-4 in the first game. Despite a solid performance from starting pitcher Melido Perez, the bullpen faltered in the eighth inning, allowing the Pirates to take the lead on a 3-run home run by Eddie Williams.

The Pirates took game two with a 6-3 victory. Orlando Merced delivered a key two-run single, and pitcher Tom Gordon earned his 16th with of the season. The Rockies managed home runs from Andres Galarrago and B.J. Surhoff, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Pirates.

The series finale was a high-scoring blowout that saw the Pirates dominate the Rockies 22-8. Pittsburgh's offense was nearly unstoppable, led by Andy Van Slyke (two home runs, six RBI) and Barry Bonds (two home runs). While the Rockies pitching staff struggled mightily, Alex Rodriguez continued to show he is ready for the big leagues, collecting three hits, including two doubles.