A historic power surge sent the Colorado Rockies into the All-Star break feeling charged up. Michael Toglia led the charge, blasting three solo homers in three consecutive at-bats. The Rockies launched a total of six homers in their 8-5 win over the New York Mets on a sunny Sunday afternoon at Citi Field. This thrilling display of power made Toglia the first Rockies player to hit three homers in a game since Brendan Rodgers did it in a wild 13-12 victory over Miami back on June 1, 2022, during a doubleheader. Toglia's impressive performance brought his season total to 16 homers, leading the team.
“Yeah, I’ve hit three homers in a game before, but that was in the minors,” Toglia shared with Rockies.TV. “I’m definitely feeling more confident now. Playing every day, sticking to my routine, and seeing the results—that’s where the confidence comes from.”
Shortstop Ezequiel Tovar, shaking off a recent 0-for-30 slump, added to the fireworks with two two-run homers and a double, driving in four runs. Brenton Doyle chipped in with a solo homer of his own. Colorado’s six homers fell just one shy of the team record, and over the three-game series in Queens, the Rockies smashed 12 homers—their highest ever for a three-game series.
Before the Rockies' offensive explosion took center stage, the game was marked by the return of right-hander German Marquez. Making his first major league start since undergoing Tommy John surgery in May 2023, Marquez delivered a mixed performance. He allowed three runs on five hits over four innings, struck out three, but walked four. “He was a little rusty,” admitted manager Bud Black. “He looked sharp in the first couple of innings, but it’s clear he’s not there yet. It’s tough to jump back in midseason without the benefit of spring training.”
“But he’ll get there,” Black continued. “His stuff was good, and he felt good coming out of it. He’s healthy and in good spirits.”
Marquez began the day with a bang, striking out three of the first four batters he faced. In the second inning, he became Colorado’s all-time strikeout king by fanning leadoff hitter Pete Alonso with a nasty knuckle curve, notching his 984th career K and surpassing Jorge De La Rosa. Marquez blanked the Mets for three innings, but a shaky fourth inning included three walks. Alonso hit a two-run homer to put the Mets on the board. Marquez then walked Jose Iglesias, gave up a single to Tyrone Taylor, and walked Jeff McNeil to load the bases. A two-out walk by Francisco Lindor forced in another run, giving the Mets a 3-2 lead.
Despite Marquez's uneven outing, the Rockies’ offense provided ample support. Tovar’s first two-run homer in the third inning gave the Rockies an early lead, which the Mets later overtook in the fourth. But the Rockies weren’t done yet. Toglia’s second homer tied the game in the fifth, and Tovar’s second blast in the sixth gave Colorado a 5-3 lead. Toglia’s third homer in the seventh extended the lead, and Doyle’s solo shot in the eighth capped the scoring for the Rockies. The Mets managed two more runs, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Colorado’s powerful display.
The game was a thrilling back-and-forth affair, showcasing the Rockies’ resilience and power. Toglia’s historic performance was undoubtedly the highlight, but contributions from Tovar and Doyle were equally critical. As the Rockies head into the All-Star break, they do so with momentum and confidence, hoping to build on this explosive series in the second half of the season.
Rockies fans have plenty to be excited about. With Marquez back in the rotation and hitters like Toglia and Tovar finding their stride, the team seems poised for a strong finish. It’s been a season of ups and downs, but this series against the Mets could be a turning point.
As the All-Star break arrives, the Rockies have a chance to rest, regroup, and recharge. With their power surge in Queens fresh in their minds, they’ll be looking to bring that same energy and excitement to the second half of the season. Whether it's Toglia's towering homers or Marquez’s record-breaking strikeouts, there’s a lot to look forward to as the Rockies continue their quest for success.
Key Highlights:
- Michael Toglia's Hat-Trick: Three consecutive solo homers, leading the team with 16 homers.
- Ezequiel Tovar's Resurgence: Two two-run homers and a double, driving in four runs.
- Brenton Doyle's Solo Blast: Adding to the team's impressive power display.
- German Marquez's Return: A mixed performance but notable for breaking the Rockies' strikeout record.
As the Rockies gear up for the second half, fans will be eagerly watching to see if they can maintain this level of play and make a push for the playoffs.
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