“We’re gonna try”
Day 155
That’s what Rockies closer, Huston Street, said when I asked him if we were going to win tonight
Huston, everybody knows what Yoda said in Star Wars. “Do or do not. There is no try.”
This is not going to be a post bashing Street or any other Rockies player for that matter, but I did see something maybe I have never seen with the Rockies-no confidence.
In the beginning of the season, batting practice looked like a bunch of happy guys who were determined to win every game. Now it looks like a lot of serious faces taking frustration out on balls flying deep into the bleachers.
But these are serious times in Rockies land. Just last week the skip was let go and anybody I suppose could be on the chopping or trading block. I saw Rockies GM Dan O’Dowd in the stands last night and I couldn’t help wonder if he was feeling maybe a little less insecure about his position.
The Rockies had the lead by a run in the ninth and just needed Street to close it out. A few hits later and he was visibly shaken on the mound. You knew it was coming but would it reach extra-innings or the game over. Extra innings and my heart went out to Street. It was easy to see he was upset at himself. I personally think Street may be one of the nicest guys on the team. Hell if I had a sister or a daughter, I think I’d be fine with her going out with him just from how I’ve seen him act all these many games and how he has interacted with me. Class act and a gentleman he is.
But letting the lead go in the ninth is not getting it done. I’ve seen him pitch masterfully and no closer is perfect, but this could be the worst time to falter.
The closer wasn’t the only thing faltering. Leaving men on base has been killing the Rockies. In ’07 they knew the guy behind them was going to bring them in. Now it looks like they are clutching to win the game themselves. No confidence breeds bad results.
Josh Fogg, the once mighty dragon slayer, may even be weary himself. This is a picture before he threw the ball that would go as a walk off homerun. You tell me if he looks confident.
Josh Fogg by Tom Walsh
Before the game I had to joke with Garrett Atkins about the slump buster ball he signed. I told him I hope it’s helping because I did promise him it would break him out of his slump to sign the team ball and I didn’t want to be made out to be a liar. He smiled and said “It’s gotta turn sometime.”
I’m hoping not just for Garrett but the team as a whole it turns quicker than later.
No Tom, Josh does not look confident. It is so hard for the players to get out from under when they aren’t happy or they don’t think they can get the job done. Good luck! I hope the Rockies find a way to turn it around soon.
Julia
http://werbiefitz.mlblogs.com/
Hope you’re enjoying the games, in spite of the Rockies’ rough start. I keep hearing rumors that they may trade Street. What’s your read on it?
– http://janeheller.mlblogs.com
Yeah, Josh’s head is hanging low there. Yikes! Any chance you can get some spikes and take the field, Tom? Might be the Rox best option.
–Jeff
http://redstatebluestate.mlblogs.com/
You’re so right. No confidence at all. They don’t really seem to be enjoying themselves during BP/warmups. They look so down.
Kylie — http://kylie.mlblogs.com
Nope. I don’t see it. Rockies are struggling right now (sorry) but so are the Padres. Guess we’re even now 🙂 How bout taking out the Dodgers off first place soon? That will make my life so much easier.
http://hyunyoung.mlblogs.com
We’re all in the same boat. My Angels seem like they’re in a total funk but then they manage to shake it off for a game or two. Same struggles as your Rockies…too many LOB, wishy-washy bullpen, a closer who can’t close. (What’s your return policy on Brian Fuentes???) There’s still a lot of baseball left. They can turn it around.
Lori
htp://luckylori.mlblogs.com
I think a lot of team are going through a bit of a slump right now (like the Padres *cough cough*). Anyways, there’s a ton of season left and the NL West is going to be shuffled many times before the ultimate winner is declared.
http://kaybee.mlblogs.com
Guess your lucky ball finally kicked in, glad… or ecstatic, that it could help Garrett. Hope this last Astros game is a sign of things to come. Hope you’re staying safe out there.
Emily
http://deconstructingthoughts.mlblogs.com/
Oh, PS: we’re still all waiting for that picture of the 2,000th hit. I’m dying to see it! I know how skilled you are with a camera!