The Colorado Rockies concluded May with a pathetic 8-21 record after starting the season 17-8. Not many could have predicted that at the end of May the Arizona Diamondbacks would be in first place. Last year’s World Series winner came out of the NL West, but I’m going out on a limb when I say it’s not going to happen this year. The San Francisco Giants took quite a blow by losing last year’s Rookie of the Year, Buster Posey, who broke his ankle when Florida’s Scott Cousins collided with him at home plate last week.
Then there are the Rockies, who are in an absolute free-fall.
After a very promising start, the Rockies have played underachieving and uninspired baseball. It certainly doesn’t help losing Jorge de la Rosa for the year due to a shoulder injury. Also, who could have predicted that at the end of May, last year’s All-Star pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez would still be looking for his first win. The one bright spot might be the first base position with Todd Helton and substitute Jason Giambi. Helton is hitting over .300 and the long ball, which was missing last year, has returned. Giambi is also in a good spot offensively, hitting six home runs in a limited role. Unfortunately for Rockies fans, there’s not much else to be exited about.
Now, it’s time to be honest about the Rockies franchise. The Rockies have never won the NL West, but it really doesn’t matter. Many of us love our Rockies whether they win or lose. Our expectations are never too high, but the attendance always is. Denver is unlike other baseball cities, like New York, Boston, or St. Louis, where the stands are filled with baseball diehards. Here in Denver, we attend the games whether they’re having a good season or not, because it’s a fun social outing.
Many attend Rockies games for the great atmosphere, amazing weather and beautiful ballpark situated in downtown with great views of the skyline and Rocky Mountains. During Memorial Day weekend, some friends and I were grabbing a bite before the game at a restaurant (hint: mascot is an owl and the waitresses wear very little) when our server asked if we were going to the game. We, of course, said yes, and she proceeded to tell us she went the night before. She also mentioned she didn’t know who won because she was there to get drunk and socialize. I’m not sure why it is this way but it is. One reason may be that Denver is a transplant city; rarely do you meet someone who was born here. All that said, I don’t really think it’s a bad thing, because, after all, baseball is just entertainment.
