The Colorado Rockies are looking to snap their three-game road losing streak as they head to Pittsburgh for a showdown with the Pirates on Wednesday. After a tough stretch away from home, the Rockies (16-26) are hoping to turn things around against a Pirates squad that's been heating up lately.
Pittsburgh (23-19) has been solid at home with a 12-9 record, and their pitching staff has been a big reason why. They boast the fourth-best team ERA in the National League at 3.67, anchored by starter Mitch Keller (4-1, 2.87 ERA). Keller has been dealing this season, racking up 35 strikeouts and showing why he's one of the league's rising arms. The Pirates have also been on a roll, winning seven of their last 10 games and outscoring opponents by 21 runs during that span.
On the other side, the Rockies will counter with veteran left-hander Jose Quintana (1-2, 3.90 ERA). While Quintana has been steady, Colorado's struggles on the road are hard to ignore. They're just 8-15 away from Coors Field, and their recent form has been a major concern—they've lost eight of their last 10 games, with a team batting average of just .227 and a 6.78 ERA over that stretch.
When these two teams clash, keep an eye on the big bats. For the Pirates, Brandon Lowe has been a force with 10 home runs and a .558 slugging percentage, while Marcell Ozuna has been hot lately, going 10-for-39 with two homers and six RBIs in his last 10 games. The Rockies will look to Mickey Moniak, who leads the team with 11 home runs and 19 extra-base hits, and T.J. Rumfield, who's been finding his groove with two homers and five RBIs over the last 10 games.
Both teams are dealing with some injury issues. The Pirates are missing Joey Bart (foot infection), Jake Mangum (hamstring), Chris Devenski (illness), and Jared Jones (elbow). The Rockies have a longer list, including Ryan Feltner (tricep), Kris Bryant (back), and several pitchers on the 60-day IL.
With the Pirates as heavy favorites at -185 and the over/under set at 8.5 runs, this game could be a test of Colorado's resilience. Can the Rockies break their road slide, or will Pittsburgh's pitching and momentum keep them rolling? For fans gearing up for game day, it's the perfect time to stock up on your team's gear—whether you're repping the Rockies or Pirates, make sure you're ready to cheer in style.