Colorado Rockies Continue to Shine
At the start of the season, I went out on a limb and predicted the Rockies would do something they have never done in their 24-year history: Win the National League West.
So I thought I would provide you with an update and see if I look as silly now as many thought I did then.
The answer is no.
After 46 games, the Rockies lead the National league west with a 29-17 record. As if that wasn't enough, they also lead the National league in wins and lead the majors with a 16-7 record. Want more? O.K.!
Greg Holland, the Rockies closer has yet to blow a save, going 19-19 so far and setting yet another Rockies record. His Earned Run Average (E.R.A.) is under a run a game (0.96) and the bullpen, long the bane of the team's existence, is among the league leaders.
The starting pitching, among the youngest in baseball, has shown to be resilient, and in some cases, offensive minded, as Denver native Kyle Freeland's home run illustrates.
Offensively, the Rockies boast a .264 average, 20 points higher than the teams they have played, have hit 59 home runs and driven in 223.
Compared to the 2016 team, the E.R.A. is 4.29, compared to last year's 4.91, meaning they are giving up nearly one run less this year, a huge reason why the team is leading the NL West this close to Memorial Day.
Charlie Blackmon, one of the most dangerous leadoff hitters in the league, leads the team with a .321 batting average, while Mark Reynolds and Nolan Arrenado lead the team with 12 home runs.
With the Dodgers and Diamondbacks playing catch up, and the Rockies continuing to win series after series, it's a safe bet that my start of the season prediction will come true.
Keep watching these 2017 Rockies as they continue to make strides towards their first division title!