Colorado Rockies left-fielder Jake McCarthy turned heads on Friday, May 13, when he recorded the franchise’s first unassisted double play—a rarity not seen from a left-fielder in the majors since 2013. The play came amid a 9-4 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates at Coors Field, giving the Rockies a much-needed boost in the National League West race.
McCarthy’s quick reflexes on a line drive to short was followed by an immediate tag on the runner, completing the DP and igniting the home crowd. The moment was highlighted by MLB.com, which noted the historic significance of the play for both team and league. It is the kind of flashing-lights defense that turns a standard win into a permanent piece of team lore.
What does the game recap reveal about Colorado’s offense?
The Rockies rattled six runs, with Mickey Moniak launching a three-run homer in the fourth inning and later adding a two-run triple, accounting for half of the team’s total. Ryan O’Hearn contributed a solo shot, while Ezequiel Tovar and Kyle Karros each added RBI singles, showcasing depth across the lineup. This offensive explosion suggests a shift in momentum for a squad that has struggled with consistency since April.
Colorado Rockies hitters managed to exploit the thin air of Coors Field with precision, forcing the Pirates’ pitching staff into several high-stress innings. The team’s ability to string together hits in the middle innings proved the difference, as they didn’t let the lead slip away despite a late push from Pittsburgh. When the bats wake up like this, the Rockies look like a completely different animal on the diamond.
How did the Rockies’ defense complement the offensive surge?
Beyond McCarthy’s DP, Colorado’s pitchers kept Pittsburgh’s attack in check. Mitch Keller surrendered three runs over five innings, while reliever Brandan Bidois—making his Pirates debut—recorded a clean inning before being pulled. The defense turned two double plays in total, underscoring a balanced effort. The synergy between the mound and the grass was tight, preventing the Pirates from mounting a serious comeback.
The Rockies defensive unit played with a level of aggression that often goes missing in the high-altitude environment of Denver. By cutting off passing lanes and executing precise tags, the fielders limited the damage during the few times Pittsburgh threatened. That unassisted gem by McCarthy wasn’t just a fluke; it was a signal that the outfield is playing with extreme confidence.
Key Developments
- McCarthy’s DP is the first by a left-fielder in MLB since 2013, marking a league-wide rarity.
- Mickey Moniak’s three-run homer came on his birthday, the second time he’s homered on the date in his career.
- Brandan Bidois became the first Australian-born player to appear for the Pirates, a footnote to the night’s drama.
- The Rockies tallied 12 hits, the highest offensive output in a home game this season.
- Pittsburgh’s rookie TJ Rumfield added a solo homer, his first of the year, highlighting the Pirates’ limited power.
What’s next for the Colorado Rockies?
Looking at the tape, the Rockies’ front office sees McCarthy’s defensive spark as a catalyst for a tighter infield alignment, while the offense aims to sustain the multi-run output against stronger division foes. With the NL West tightening, each win now carries extra weight as Colorado chases a wild-card berth. They need to prove this isn’t just a one-night wonder.
When was the last left-field unassisted double play in MLB before 2026?
The previous left-field unassisted double play occurred in 2013, making McCarthy’s feat the first in 13 years.
Why does Jake McCarthy’s DP matter for Rockies history?
It marks the franchise’s inaugural left-field unassisted double play, adding a unique defensive milestone to a team that has historically relied on strong pitching.
How many total runs did the Rockies score in the game?
Colorado posted nine runs, driven by Moniak’s three-run homer, his two-run triple, and contributions from O’Hearn, Tovar, Karros and McCarthy.