Out for More Than a Year, German Marquez Gets Nod for Rockies

The Colorado Rockies have been eagerly awaiting German Marquez’s return after more than 14 months away due to Tommy John surgery. On Sunday afternoon, he’s set to make his comeback and hopefully re-establish himself as the Rockies’ ace when Colorado tries to avoid being swept by the New York Mets in the final game of their three-game series. Marquez will face Mets left-hander Jose Quintana (4-5, 3.91 ERA).

Marquez’s Return

Marquez will be on a pitch count for his first major league start since April 26, 2023, just 16 days before his surgery. As one of the best pitchers in Rockies history, Marquez ranks among the franchise’s top five in wins, ERA, and innings pitched. He’s also just two strikeouts away from tying Jorge De La Rosa for the franchise lead. His return is expected to give a much-needed boost to a struggling rotation.

Pitching Matchup: Marquez vs. Quintana

Jose Quintana is coming off a stellar performance last Tuesday, where he allowed just one hit over seven scoreless innings in the Mets’ 7-5 victory over the Washington Nationals. He holds a 3-3 record with a 5.09 ERA in nine games (eight starts) against the Rockies.

Marquez, on the other hand, has had a rough rehab stint, going 0-4 with a 7.11 ERA in seven appearances. However, he has a strong track record against the Mets, boasting a 4-2 record with a 3.27 ERA in seven career starts, including a 2-1 record with a 1.42 ERA in three starts at Citi Field.

Mets’ Recent Performance

The Mets have been on fire, winning their fifth straight game on Saturday as Jeff McNeil’s two-run double capped a four-run second inning in a 7-3 victory. With Saturday’s win, New York improved to 27-12 since May 29, the best record in baseball during that span. The Mets, who were 13th in the NL as of May 29, now hold a wild-card spot and are just three games behind the Atlanta Braves in the race for the first wild card.

Francisco Lindor’s three-run homer in the eighth inning on Saturday marked the 27th time the Mets have scored at least five runs since May 29. Before that, they had only done it 22 times in their first 55 games. “We all have a sense of urgency,” Lindor said. “We’re back in a good way, so we’ve got to ride it out as long as we can and try to finish the first half as strong as we can.”

Rockies’ Struggles

The Rockies have been having a tough time, with a team ERA of 5.61. They’re on pace to finish last in the National League in ERA for the third straight season and the fifth time in six seasons. The Mets sent nine batters to the plate in the second inning on Saturday against Ryan Feltner, who became the second Rockies starter in as many nights to struggle against the hottest team in the majors. Feltner gave up four runs (three earned) in 3 2/3 innings, less than 24 hours after rookie Tanner Gordon allowed six runs in three-plus innings.

“Anytime you bring a guy back into the fold who has his presence — he’s a team guy first, he cares about each and every player,” Rockies manager Bud Black said Friday afternoon. “He’s a great competitor, he loves this organization. He’s that type of guy you feel good when you’re around him.”

Conclusion

The Rockies are aiming to avoid a sweep against the Mets in the series finale with German Marquez making his long-awaited return to the mound. With Jose Quintana pitching for the Mets, fans can expect an exciting and competitive matchup. Both teams are making strategic changes to their lineups and bullpens, adding to the intrigue of this crucial game.