- Rockies fall to 4-21 record, matching 2022 Reds' historically poor 25-game start
- Spencer Steer breaks slump with critical 2-run HR against left-handed pitching
- Rookie Jordan Beck slugs two solo homers in losing effort
- Colorado's negative-60 scoring margin leads MLB by wide margin
In a Coors Field thriller emblematic of Colorado's disastrous season, the Cincinnati Reds outlasted the Rockies 8-7 Friday night. The victory extends Cincinnati's recent momentum while deepening Colorado's early-season crisis, now tied with the 2022 Reds and 2024 White Sox for worst opening 25-game stretch in modern MLB history.
Regional sports analysts highlight disturbing parallels to Cincinnati's 2022 collapse, where poor pitching and defensive miscues derailed their season. The Rockies are repeating our mistakes,said former Reds manager David Bell during the MASN broadcast. When you're allowing 5.8 runs per game, no offense can compensate.
Three critical factors sealed Colorado's fate:
- Bullpen meltdown: 5 earned runs allowed after 6th inning
- 4 stranded runners in scoring position during crucial 7th-inning rally
- Defensive miscommunication on TJ Friedl's RBI groundout
Industry experts warn the Rockies' disastrous start could cost the franchise $12-15M in lost ticket revenue through May. Attendance at Coors Field has dropped 18% compared to last season, with resale tickets for Saturday's game available below $8.
Despite the turmoil, bright spots emerged for both clubs. Cincinnati's Elly De La Cruz continues his breakout campaign, going 3-for-5 with two runs scored. Colorado rookie Jordan Beck now leads National League first-year players with five home runs, offering hope for the team's rebuilding efforts.
The Reds' bullpen strategy proved decisive, with lefty specialist Scott Alexander escaping a bases-loaded jam in the 7th. Colorado's relievers weren't as fortunate, walking three batters and surrendering two costly singles during Cincinnati's late-game surge.