Most Rockies fans hold out hope as long as possible that the team is going to turn a mediocre season around. As long as possible may have come with the news on Friday.
Friday X-Rays revealed a broken wrist for Troy Tulowitzki after he was hit by a pitch in Thursday’s matinee in Minnesota. Tulo initially remained in the game, but came out after the half inning.
The Rockies have called up former first round pick Chris Nelson to take his spot, but saying that the team will be hurting without Tulowitzki is a major understatement. In a season where most Rockies’ are struggling at the plate, Tulowitzki has continued to show that he is one of the best shortstops in baseball.
Through 62 games Tulo was hitting .306 with a .375 on-base percentage. He has nine home runs and 34 RBIs.
While Tulowitzki leads the club on offense, his defense continues to be a major reason why the Rockies have been able to be in so many games despite a lackluster offense. The shortstop is currently leading the league in both fielding percentage and chances. He also has been a part in more double plays than any other shortstop in baseball.
If losing his presence on the field isn’t bad enough, Tulowitzki is well known for being a clubhouse leader, someone who the other players look to spark the Rockies.
All reports indicate that he will be out at least six weeks, which, for all intents and purposes, kills what seemed to be a sure-fire All-Star appearance.
Presumably, the Rockies will have Nelson fill in at 2nd base while Clint Barmes slides over to play shortstop. Nelson was hitting .311 with five home runs and 20 RBIs for the Sky Sox.
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