Pitcher of Rockies dazzles in comeback to major leagues, sneaking past predictions
In a surprising boost for the struggling Rockies, 24-year-old Bradley Blalock delivered a solid outing in his second start of the season, filling in for the injured Ryan Feltner. Called up from Triple-A Albuquerque, Blalock showed poise and effectiveness, holding the Giants to just two hits over five innings in a 6-3 loss at Oracle Park.
After a rocky outing against the Reds, Blalock was optioned to Triple-A, but the Rockies called him back up just days later. Part of the reason for this recall was his work on improving his pitch command by focusing on his mechanics, particularly his back leg strength. This apparent development in his pitching skills greatly benefited the Rockies, who have been relying heavily on their bullpen this season and currently rank near the bottom of the league standings at 6-27.
Blalock started off strong, retiring the first seven batters and demonstrating veteran-level command. However, he stumbled slightly in the third inning, leaving a hanging slider over the plate to Luis Matos, who launched a solo homer to left to give the Giants a 1-0 lead. Despite this hiccup, Blalock quickly bounced back, retiring seven of the next eight batters.
The sixth inning, however, proved challenging for Blalock. He walked two of the first three batters, prompting manager Bud Black to turn to the bullpen. This decision cost the Rockies as the Giants seized momentum, tying the game with a bases-loaded single from Jung Hoo Lee and taking the lead with a devastating grand slam from Matt Chapman.
Despite the final score, Blalock's outing stood out. He struck out four, walked two, and allowed only the Matos home run and a single to Willy Adames.
Looking towards the future, with Feltner expected to miss at least a couple of turns, it seems likely that Blalock will get another shot in the rotation. For the Rockies, Blalock's emergence could be a much-needed boost as they search for momentum in the 2025 season.
The young pitcher seems more than ready for any challenge that comes his way: "Just go down there and be ready for anything."
- Blalock's pitch command has improved significantly, as he focused on his mechanics, particularly his back leg strength.
- Despite a blemish in the third inning where Luis Matos hit a solo homer, Blalock showed impressive resilience by retiring seven of the next eight batters.
- The Rockies, struggling in the league standings, benefited from Blalock's improved pitching skills, as he held the Giants to just two hits over five innings.
- With Ryan Feltner expected to miss several starts, Bradley Blalock may get another opportunity to demonstrate his skills in the rotation.
- Blalock demonstrated a confident attitude, ready to face any challenges that come his way in the MLB: "Just go down there and be ready for anything."
