Friday, September 29th 6:10pm: Hyun-Jin Ryu (5-8 3.47) vs. Chad Bettis (1-4 5.72)
Ryu has made three starts against Colorado this year, but has not made one since May 11th, a start in which he gave up ten runs (five earned) over four innings. This series means little for the Dodgers as they can only clinch home field in the World Series, whereas the Rockies are fighting for their first playoff spot since 2009. They have a good chance as and combination of two wins by Colorado and losses by the Brewers seals the wild card for them and they get to finish at home. Chad Bettis makes the series opening start which is not the best thing, but in big games Bettis has been known to perform and this is a huge game for him and the Rockies.
Saturday, September 30th 6:10pm: Clayton Kershaw (18-4 2.21) vs. German Marquez (11-7 4.38)
Before September came, Marquez was in the conversation to start the Wild Card game if the Rockies made it. However, he has struggled in September and this is a start in which he needs to rebound. There is likely some arm fatigue which is why the Rockies would love to clinch on Friday and give Marquez a little bit of a break on Saturday, but that is something that might have to wait. Facing Kershaw, the Rockies do not get any break in terms of who they play against. Kershaw is likely not going to make a full start, but he can be extremely efficient and it should not be counted on that he will get removed early, unless the Rockies can force that removal, which they did in their last start against Kershaw in LA.
Sunday, October 1st 1:10pm: TBD vs. TBD
Ideally, this game will be meaningless for both teams with the Rockies hopefully clinching in either of the two prior games. The Rockies will probably go to Anderson if this game does not need to be won and Gray if it does. Either way, it looks like one of those pitchers, pending the Rockies involvement in the Wild Card, will make the game start based on who does not start the season finale. Regardless of the outcome of this season, it has been a huge improvement on last year’s record and has proven to be a sign of good things to come. With the rotation strengthened mightily with all of the rookies and Bud Black at the helm, there is a lot to be happy about and a lot to look forward to.
A Mile Higher Baseball 