Historic Defeat
In the opening game of the new Major League Baseball season, the Colorado Rockies’ pitching staff endured a historic setback, allowing a staggering 14 runs in a single inning to the Arizona Diamondbacks. This marked the most dismal performance in opening day history and tied for the fourth-highest single-inning run total in MLB history. Rockies’ starting pitcher Kyle Freeland struggled immensely, lasting only 2.1 innings while conceding 10 runs.
Underwhelming Start
Despite a promising performance in spring training, the Rockies, who were considered to be among the weaker teams in the National League last year, faced a brutal start to the season. Freeland gave up a two-run home run in the first inning and managed to retire the side in the second, giving hope for stability. However, the third inning saw a sudden explosion, with Freeland allowing six runs on consecutive hits and walks with only one out recorded.
Pitching Woes Continue
The Rockies’ pitching struggles continued as Anthony Molina took over from Freeland, yielding another six runs on consecutive extra-base hits, extending the deficit to 14-1. The Diamondbacks added two more runs in the inning through sacrifice flies and base hits, bringing their total to 14 runs scored in a single inning. It wasn’t until Jalen Beeks came in as a relief pitcher that the Rockies finally recorded the third out.
Late Defensive Stand
Interestingly, the Rockies managed to keep the Diamondbacks scoreless from the fourth inning until the end of the game. However, the damage had already been done, and the final score remained at 16-1 in favor of the Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks tallied 18 hits, including a home run, while the Rockies could only muster 4 hits and 1 run, highlighting the vast disparity in performance.
Record-Breaking Defeat
The Rockies’ concession of 14 runs in a single inning set a new low in opening day history, underscoring the magnitude of their defeat. This dismal performance also equaled the fourth-highest single-inning run total in MLB history, highlighting the historical significance of their defeat on opening day. (JILICC)