Charlie Blackmon loves baseball like an 8-year-old kid, works out with the energy of a teenager, and views the game through the eyes of a gnarly veteran.
All of these qualities were on full display Monday afternoon at a sun-splashed Coors Field. Blackmon, who turns 38 on July 1, hit a three-run homer, smacked two doubles, and drove in four runs, leading the Rockies to an 8-6 victory over the Cleveland Guardians. “Chuck Nazty” proved he’s still got it, making a slick, sliding catch in foul territory in the sixth inning to retire Cleveland’s Kyle Manzardo.
Here's a breakdown of the game's exciting moments:
- Blackmon's Big Hits: A three-run homer, two doubles, and four RBIs from Blackmon.
- Josh Rogers' Relief: Five solid innings, charged with two runs on four hits after being called up from Triple-A.
- Rockies' Breakout Inning: A six-run fourth inning featuring a two-run single by Elehuris Montero and Blackmon's three-run homer.
After winning a weekend series against the Philadelphia Phillies, who hold the best record in the National League, the Rockies cooled off baseball’s hottest team. The Guardians came into Denver riding a nine-game winning streak, their longest since setting the American League record with 22 straight victories back in 2017.
The game’s co-star was lefty reliever Josh Rogers, who was called up from Triple-A Albuquerque before the game. Rogers provided the Rockies with much-needed bullpen stability, especially after left-hander Austin Gomber was scratched due to arm soreness. Anthony Molina, a Rule-5 draft acquisition, started but quickly exited after giving up three runs on two hits and three walks in just 1 2/3 innings.
Colorado’s breakout inning was the six-run fourth, sending nine men to the plate. It included a two-run single from Elehuris Montero and was capped off by Blackmon’s three-run, line-drive homer to right field. This was only Blackmon’s second homer of the season and his first in 114 at-bats, dating back to April 8.
In the sixth, Blackmon added an RBI double, scoring Sean Bouchard, who had walked and stolen second.
All these elements came together to create a thrilling win for the Rockies, showcasing both veteran savvy and youthful energy.
Login