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Suddenly Surging Rockies Face Guardians in Latest Test
Rockies’ Recent Performance
The Colorado Rockies have turned a corner this month, playing their best baseball against top-tier teams. They swept the Texas Rangers in Denver, did the same on the road against the San Diego Padres, and just took two of three from the hottest team in the majors, the Philadelphia Phillies. Now, the Rockies face another tough test as they host the surging Cleveland Guardians on Monday for the first of three games.
The Rockies will send lefty Austin Gomber (1-2, 2.76 ERA) to the mound against Cleveland’s Xzavion Curry (0-0, 1.93) in the matinee opener. Gomber has been stellar in May, posting an ERA of 0.68, leading Colorado’s rotation with his 2.76 mark. Despite his strong performances, wins have been elusive for him, but his efforts have been crucial in the Rockies’ resurgence.
Guardians’ Winning Streak
The Guardians are on fire, riding a nine-game winning streak after completing a road sweep of the Los Angeles Angels with a 5-4 win on Sunday. Cleveland has won 12 of its past 13 games, keeping them within a game of the New York Yankees for the best record in the American League.
Pitching Matchup
Curry has one career appearance against Colorado, a relief outing where he didn’t allow a run in 3 1/3 innings. Recently recalled from Triple-A, Curry started against the New York Mets, giving up two runs in 4 1/3 innings in the Guardians’ 7-6 win. His task will be to contain a Rockies lineup that has found its stride against tough competition.
Impact Players
Cleveland’s success has been fueled by Jose Ramirez, who has been a catalyst during their winning streak. Ramirez hit two home runs on Friday, another on Saturday, and has 10 in May, leading the majors with 52 RBIs. His dominance was evident even in near-misses, like the leaping catch by Los Angeles right fielder Jo Adell that robbed him of another home run.
“He’s the goat. The goat,” Cleveland starter Tanner Bibee said of Ramirez. “It’s simple, that’s all I have to say. He’s the goat.”
Ramirez will face a Rockies rotation that has been on a hot streak of its own, with six straight quality starts. Gomber has been a standout, with his recent form spearheading the Rockies’ turnaround from a dismal start to the season.
Manager’s Perspective
“Good starting pitching is the lifeblood, backbone, the heart and soul of an organization that consistently wins,” Rockies manager Bud Black said after Colorado’s 5-2 win over Philadelphia on Sunday. “We’re trying to get there. This group here has pitched really well, and they’re the reason why these games have been really close to the end. The guys think you’re going to win when you’re pitching well. It’s good to win a series; it’s uplifting for the guys.”
Conclusion
As the Rockies prepare to face the Guardians, both teams bring significant momentum into the series. Colorado will look to build on their recent success and continue their streak of quality pitching, while Cleveland aims to extend their winning streak and maintain their position among the American League’s best. With key players performing at their peak and both teams eyeing crucial victories, this series promises to be a thrilling matchup for baseball fans.
