The Colorado Rockies dropped the first game of their series against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field with a 3-1 final score. The Rockies pitched well, led by rookie lefty Carson Palmquist, but the offense failed to get much of anything done against the Cubs pitching staff.
Coolquist, Calmquist, and Collectedquist
Rookie left-handed pitcher Carson Palmquist (no. 9 PuRP) has shown growth in all three of his big league starts, with today being the best of his young career. He worked five innings and gave up two earned runs on three hits. Palmquist did a much better job of selecting and locating his pitches—especially placing his fastball up in the strike zone—but his command still needs work and his tendency to nibble led to three walks on the afternoon. However, he also struck out a career high four batters and at one point recorded eight straight outs. Palmquist’s next outing will likely come in Miami: his home state and the city where he played college ball.
Tied up by Taillon
The Rockies had very little to offer against Cubs starting pitcher Jameson Taillon. Taillon held a perfect game through 4 2⁄3 innings as he set down the first 14 Rockies batters he faced before giving up his only earned run of the game in the top of the fifth inning. He issued no free passes and tied a season high with seven strikeouts through 6 1⁄3 innings of work.
Another unearned run spoils a strong afternoon from the bullpen.
Rookie reliever Juan Mejia pitched two very strong innings of relief for the most part. He struck out four batters and gave up just one hit and one walk. Unfortunately he also gave up an unearned run when he attempted to turn a double play instead of taking the easy out at first base. This unearned run pads the Rockies’ league lead in errors and unearned runs so far this season. Zach Agnos pitched another solid scoreless outing, lowering his ERA on the season to 1.20 through 13 appearances.
Failure to launch in the Friendly Confines
The Rockies were without a base runner for 4 2⁄3 innings against the Cubs until their one and only run came form an unlikely source. Right fielder Mickey Moniak hit his fifth home run of the season, breaking through the wind to hit the bleachers. Unfortunately, the Rockies were unable to do much else. They scored just that one run on five hits and two walks, going 0-for-3 with runners in scoring position and leaving five men stranded. Rockies batters struck out nine times, three of which came from first baseman Michael Toglia.
Coming Up Next
The Rockies will play their second contest against the Cubs tomorrow night, hoping to find the ever elusive “double-digit wins” category by the end of the month. Germán Márquez will take on Cubs top pitching prospect Cade Horton. First pitch will be at 6:05 PM MDT.
