Rock Solid Recap: Maybe Jeff Francis Should Start Four Times A Week

Rockies 4, Phillies 1 (boxscore)

You know, since the Rockies lone two wins in the last 14 games have come in Francis starts. Let him start. Give him a 30-pitch limit. Give one day of rest. Bring him right back.

That's pretty sound logic, right Jimbo?

Winning Players: I was all set to name Wilin Rosario and Chris Nelson the Winning Players before last night's ridiculous 9th inning meltdown. To their credit, they came right back tonight and earned the right again by each connecting for a two-run homer to help the Rockies avoid the sweep.

Highlights of the Night

Watch Chris Nelson's two-run homer

Watch Wilin Rosario's two-run homer 

The month of June hasn't provided many positives. In fact, Chris Nelson's recent improved play is the only one I can think of off hand. I'm sure there's something obvious I'm missing though. As for Rosario, he's strong as hell, and should he develop anything resembling decent plate discipline, he'll be pretty special.  For now, though, I'll just enjoy the tape measure bombs and his kid like enthusiasm as he rounds the bases.

Turning Point: Nelson's home run gave the Rockies the lead and is an obvious selection. But I'm thinking the 2nd inning where Jeff Francis pitched around a lead-off double and a Jordan Pacheco throwing error to keep the game at 1-0 was the big moment in the game. In Philly adds on there, who knows which direction this game goes.

Jeff Francis' Line: 5 IP, 1 ER, 6 H, 0 BB, 3 K, 76 pitches (48 strikes)

To pitch five innings (and therefore qualify for a victory) under Jim Tracy's new whacked out scheme, it's going to take an efficient outing void of walks. That's exactly what Jeff Francis provided today, and under a rational, logical system, he's probably good for at least two more innings. But nah, we'll just stick to looking like a Mickey Mouse organization. No problem.

And the Rockies won tonight and should have won last night, so this system may last longer than the two weeks I originally predicted.

Screengrab of the Game

I don't know. Not sure I want to.

What's Next: The Road To 100 gets a little easier as the Rockies pack their bags and head to Arlington, Texas. And lucky us, we get to see Roy Oswalt as he makes his long-awaited Rangers debut. The Rockies will counter with Christian Friedrich (3-4, 5.60), and I'm betting the under on him lasting three full innings. First pitch is 6:10.

Final Thoughts: Not to rain on the victory parade or the fact they nearly stumbled into winning this series in Philadelphia, but what's the most lopsided scoring difference for a three-game series in MLB history?

Whatever it is, I fear we may challenge it this weekend.

More Rockies thoughts await you if you follow me on Twitter: @Townie813 & @HeavenHelton