Francis approach and Rockies offensive night

Marco Scutaro is being scouted for a possible trade and he showed well for opposing teams by driving in three runs in the Rockies' victory over Arizona to wrap up that series.

Jeff Francis tames Diamondbacks

Jeff Francis earned the win after allowing only two runs in six innings. Do you know he has six effective starts in 10 this season? That 60 percent "success" rate must puzzle other starters on the roster, as in how is Francis doing it? He's healthy again and he's pitching with less exposure to risk and hitting spots and missing much of the plate. 

Rookie catcher Wilin Rosario clubbed his 16th homer of the season, Dexter Fowler banged out three hits and rookie shortstop Josh Rutledge collected two more hits. 

Rosario's offense has been stronger than expected, rewarding the Rockies' faith in him leaving spring training with the team. Fowler looked awful at one point in this season, someone who would have little trade value but he's become a consistent hitter and is showing the best power of his career. Rutledge, well, what can you say, the guy is good. He won't always hit this well, he just doesn't profile as that type of high-.300's bat but he is someone I profile to have a long MLB career and be a guy who is a great role model on the field, a gamer.


Rockies' Prospects Spotlight

Matt McBride

Triple-A outfielder Matt McBride homered, finished with three hits and drove in five runs. He's now hitting .361. Why isn't he in the majors? One big reason is his power in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League - not good enough for his position - 9 homers.

High-A outfielder Kyle Parker is the hottest hitter in the Rockies' system but he was held to just one hit - his 12th homer of the season.

Rookie-league outfielder David Dahl keeps hitting - three more to his season total and his average is now at a remarkable .366.