While the GJ Rockies are off to a rough start, some of their alums continue to shine at the big league level. John Gray has returned to produce two wins and the longest home run of the season, Raimel Tapia has provided some much need offense and Scott Oberg seems to have settled into the bullpen. Who will the Rockies target at the trade deadline? The Blue Jays seem eager to deal starter Marcus Strohman. The 25 year old would be a fantastic addition, the bullpen remains a concern. Perhaps the Phillies Pat Neshak could be the solid bridge Colorado needs to All-Star Greg Holland.
Speaking of the GJ Rockies, fans want to see wins, but developing young talent is still the main goal. Rockies voice Adam Spolane says Pioneer League pitcher of the Week Jeffri Ocando has been a pleasant surprise and the more innings for Ben Bowden and Tommy Doyle could help GJ turn things around in the second half. Shael Mendoza is third in batting average in league, but has to get better defensively after committing a team high 9 errors.
The Nuggets’ pursuit of Paul Milsap is finally over. Milsap will have his homecoming to Denver after leaving the Mile High City when he was young to move with his mom and brothers to Louisiana. Denver was 29th in team defense and Milsap will help address that, along with bringing rebounding assistance for the Joker. The question is can Jokic and Milsap both thrive together since both play in the paint? That’s something Michael Malone will work out as Milsap should help push the Nuggets into the Western Conference playoffs.
We’ve enjoyed catching up with the area coaches on their summers. Summer baseball and basketball are in the books and now coaches can enjoy some downtime. Well, that may not be true for a couple of Grand Junction coaches. Boys basketball coach Issac Madison and baseball coach Justin Little have new babies, so you know restful nights are occasionally rare. Congrats to the Madison’s and the Little’s on their new team members!
Make sure you listen for The Jim Davis Show’s Summer Music Madness contest. It starts July 10th and you could win 16 of the greatest rock albums of all-time and a Bob Marley turntable from Rock and Matt at Triple Records on Main Street! Thanks again to Triple Play for the help!
Catch The Jim Davis Show weekdays from 7-10 AM on 101.1 FM, 1340, 1490 in Rifle and 100.1 in Montrose.