Mother Nature is calling an audible in Denver. With a spring storm bearing down on the Mile High City, the Colorado Rockies have moved up their series opener against the New York Mets to a 3:40 p.m. start—three hours earlier than originally scheduled. The decision is a race against the clock, as rain, thunderstorms, and even snow are forecasted to roll in from Tuesday through Thursday, threatening to disrupt the entire three-game set.
Monday’s early afternoon warmth—temperatures are expected to reach the 70s—won’t last. A cold front is set to sweep through, bringing showers, rumbles of thunder, and a low risk of hail, especially north of Denver. By Tuesday evening, a winter storm watch kicks in at 8 p.m., with predictions of three to nine inches of snow in parts of the Denver Metro area and along the I-25 corridor. It’s the kind of weather that makes you grateful for a good rain jacket and a sturdy pair of cleats.
On the field, the Rockies (14-21) are desperate for a spark. They were just swept by the Braves and are still hunting for their first win of this homestand. Fortunately for Colorado, they’re facing the MLB-worst Mets (12-22), a team they already swept in New York back in April. If there’s ever a time to turn things around, it’s now.
Given the forecast, a quick, low-scoring game would be a welcome change from the typical Coors Field slugfest. And the Rockies have the right man on the mound to deliver it. Right-hander Tomoyuki Sugano has been a steady force this season, posting a 3-1 record with a 2.84 ERA across six starts. Over 31.2 innings, he’s struck out 21 batters while walking just nine. In his last two outings—wins over the Padres and Reds—he’s surrendered only one run in 11 innings. He’s the kind of pitcher who can keep the ball on the ground and the clock moving.
The Mets, meanwhile, are shaking up their rotation to find answers. They’ll deploy right-hander Huascar Brazobán as an opener today. The reliever has been effective in a limited role, going 2-0 with a 1.15 ERA over 15.2 innings across 14 appearances, striking out 13. It’s a gamble, but with their rotation struggling, New York is hoping for a spark of their own.
Whether it’s the weather or the pitching, expect a day full of twists in Denver. Gear up, stay dry, and get ready for baseball—come rain, snow, or shine.