On Friday, the Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates delivered one of the most thrilling games of the season at Coors Field, with the Rockies pulling off an incredible comeback after trailing the Pirates by nine runs twice. The game began with the Rockies facing an insurmountable 9-0 deficit after the top of the first inning, but the Rockies refused to yield, mounting one of the most dramatic comebacks in MLB history. The game featured back-to-back nine-run deficits, with the Rockies managing to overcome the odds and eventually secure a walk-off victory with a final score of 17-16.
The Pirates wasted no time in seizing control, as their offense exploded early in the game. Antonio Senzatela, the Rockies’ starting pitcher, was taken to task by the Pirates’ lineup, as they scored eight runs on him while managing only two outs. Oneil Cruz’s grand slam in the top of the first inning put the Pirates up 5-0, setting the tone for what would become an explosive game. However, the Rockies’ rally began almost immediately, as the team showed incredible determination to fight back and keep the game alive. Carson Palmquist, who came in to relieve Senzatela, was unable to contain the damage as he surrendered a three-run home run to Andrew McCutchen on the first batter he faced, making it 9-0 in favor of the Pirates.
Despite the daunting early deficit, the Rockies began to chip away at the lead. They managed to score one run in the first inning and three more in the third, reducing the Pirates’ lead to 9-4. However, the Pirates responded with three runs in the top of the fourth inning to take a commanding 12-4 lead. The Rockies, however, were not done yet, as they managed to score two runs in the bottom of the fourth to cut the deficit to 12-6. The Pirates continued to add runs, scoring three in the top of the fifth to make it 15-6, but the Rockies again fought back, scoring four runs to make it 15-10 in the bottom of the fifth. The game continued to swing wildly, with the Pirates adding a run in the top of the sixth to make it 16-10, but the Rockies once again found a way to respond, scoring two runs in the bottom of the eighth to cut the deficit to 16-12. The game was far from over, and the Rockies continued to fight for a chance to overtake the Pirates.
The decisive moment of the game arrived in the ninth inning when the Rockies made their final push for victory. Hunter Goodman hit a solo home run off Pirates’ relief pitcher Dennis Santana, making it 16-13. Left fielder Jordan Beck followed with a walk, setting the stage for the Rockies’ rally. First baseman Warming Bernabel hit a triple, scoring Beck to cut the lead to 16-14. Second baseman Thairo Estrada then singled after Bernabel’s triple to score him, making it 16-15. With Estrada as the tying run on base, center fielder Brenton Doyle delivered the game-winning hit, launching a two-run home run to make it 17-16 and walk the Pirates off.
After the game, Doyle reflected on the incredible feat, stating, “Honestly, pretty speechless. It’s hard to put into words. Just so proud of everyone in this clubhouse, never giving up. Man, what a win.” Doyle’s words captured the essence of the Rockies’ historic comeback, as they not only overcame a massive deficit but also set the tone for what could be a defining moment in the team’s season.
According to Elias Sports Bureau and MLB.com, the Rockies were the first team to win after giving up nine runs in the first inning since the then Cleveland Indians did it in a 15-13, 10-inning triumph over the Kansas City Royals in 2006. The only other instances of a similar comeback in MLB history occurred way back in 1884, 1896, and 1913. This remarkable feat not only highlights the Rockies’ resilience and determination but also cements this as one of the most memorable games of the season. The Rockies’ victory is a testament to the power of teamwork, grit, and unyielding perseverance in the face of insurmountable odds.
Overall, the Rockies’ dramatic comeback against the Pirates was a true display of sportsmanship and tenacity. The team’s ability to push through a seemingly impossible scenario and emerge victorious is a testament to the spirit of the game and the players’ unwavering determination. This game will be remembered as one of the most thrilling and unpredictable moments in Major League Baseball history.