Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
In the midst of the Colorado Rockies trying to climb back into the pennant race in the National League’s Western division, something rather interesting has happened. One of their young starters has really stepped up of late. Tyler Chatwood’s last four starts have been about as good as anyone could ask for. The Rockies have had some injury problems and they continue to have them but Chatwood might be someone that needs to stick at the MLB level long term.
He has only given up six total runs in his last four starts. That covers almost 28 innings. In the last win versus the Milwaukee Brewers he showed yet another bit of potential by striking out 11 batters. One of the best things about Chatwood is his breaking ball. It has nasty all over it and that can be a really good thing for a Rockies starting pitcher. The thinner air isn’t talked about as much as it once was but for sure a great breaking ball, that could bring grounders if it is working, is a great pitch for the Rockies.
They are still a little far from the top two of the division to call themselves a threat for the pennant but with Chatwood continuing to pitch this way as well as a few other plus young starters, they could be sitting pretty if they ever get fully healthy. It will be a struggle even at that because of how well the Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks are playing. Still, I would say the Rockies are a dark horse to win the division. They have sprung towards the top a couple of times already, it is completely possible that they will make at least one big run before the end of the season. Pitchers like Chatwood are a big reason why that could happen.
David Miller is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @davidmillerrant, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google Plus.
