The Current Run

You can only look back from the future. For all the belly aching on the radio and in the paper about the Rockies struggles scoring runs, blown bullpen outings, and the need to shake things up if the players don't respond, you have to look at reality once in a while.

Here are some things you wouldn't know if you only listened to the naysayers:

1. Rockies are in a tie for 3rd Place with the Dodgers in the NL West 4 games behind the Padres. In 2009 at this point they were in 3rd, but were 10 games behind the Dodgers.

2. The Rockies are still a game ahead of last year's pace at 38-33. After 71 games last year, the Rockies were 37-34. After 72 they were 37-35.

3. Last year through 71 games, the Rockies scored 4 runs or less in 35 games, and were 9-26. This year they have 7 more games with 4 or fewer runs and have won all 7 for a 16-26 record.

4. Last year as with this year through 71 games, the Rockes held their opponent to 4 runs or fewer 43 times. This year they have 2 more wins at 33-10 vs. 31-12 last year.

5. Since May 19, the Rockies have compiled a 19-12 record (.613) 3rd best in the National League. Only the Mets and Braves have better records over that period of time.

This not to say, there are no concerns, but it's certainly not time to overreact and panic. Fortunately, the writers and talk show hosts don't make the personnel decisions.

A Big Stretch

The Rockies enter an opportune time to make a move in the NL West race. Over the next 5 weeks leading up to the All-Star Break, the Rockies have 3 Homestands and two Road Trips. That's 23 of the next 32 at home. In the first two months of the season the Rockies have only played 24 home games and 32 on the Road. The Rockies can use this stretch to get their bats back and get some consistency on defense.

After the All-star Break the Rockies have an 11 game road trip and 25 out of 36 on the road.