Rockies' Marvin Freeman Shuts Down Expos for Fifth Consecutive Win

Strategic Insights -

The Colorado Rockies are on a roll, posting their fifth consecutive victory, 4-1 over the Montreal Expos, behind a strong performance by starter Marvin Freeman. Freeman, who hadn't won in his previous five starts, pitched seven shutout innings, striking out four and walking none, as the Rockies cracked 20 homers in their just-completed seven-game homestand. The Rockies drew a record crowd of 48,114, their 15th consecutive sellout, and now hold a five-game lead in the National League West.

Key Takeaways:

  • Marvin Freeman pitched seven shutout innings, limiting the Expos to five hits, striking out four, and walking none.
  • Freeman's performance ended a streak of five consecutive losses, and he attributed his turnaround to a change in mechanics, specifically slowing down his delivery to allow his arm to catch up with his body.
  • The Rockies hit 20 homers in their seven-game homestand, a franchise record, and drew a record crowd of 48,114 for their 15th consecutive sellout.
  • Dante Bichette and Larry Walker hit back-to-back solo home runs in the sixth inning, while Eric Young and John Vander Wal also homered for the Rockies.
  • The Rockies' fifth consecutive win puts them in first place in the National League West, with a five-game lead.
  • Rockies manager Don Baylor hinted that Freeman's starting status had become tenuous, but praised his performance, saying "that's what we needed today."
  • Expos manager Felipe Alou commented on the team's struggles, saying "we can't play long ball with that team" after the Rockies hit 12 homers in the series.

Statistics:

  • Marvin Freeman pitched 7 shutout innings, limiting the Expos to 5 hits.
  • The Rockies drew 48,114 fans at Coors Field, their 15th consecutive sellout.
  • The Rockies hit 20 homers in their seven-game homestand, a franchise record.
  • Marvin Freeman has a 3-6 record.
  • The Rockies hold a five-game lead in the National League West.
  • The Rockies have hit 12 consecutive home runs in the series.

Sources:

  • Byline: JOHN MOSSMAN Denver CO -- BY JOHN MOSSMAN Associated Press DENVER
  • Denver Post
  • Rockies' box score for June 20, 1999