DENVER -- It’s Garrett Hampson’s turn, again.
After hitting home runs in victories over the D-backs on Friday and Saturday, Hampson was in the Rockies’ lineup in center field for Sunday's finale at Coors Field. While going through a 6-for-51 (.118) slump from July 21-Aug. 17 cost him playing time, Hampson had a clear improvement plan.
“I’m just continuing to work on my body position in order to get a clean path for my swing and get it off on time -- timing and rhythm,” Hampson said.
Hampson’s situation illustrates how the Rockies have been melding the necessary development of their players with the basic goal of winning games.
At times, development is costly. With the field dotted with rookies or players receiving their first opportunities, the Rockies started the year 19-34. After that, they went 38-32 in their next 70 games. It doesn’t mean much this year -- they're in fourth place in the National League West and entered Sunday 22 games behind the division-leading Giants and 10 back of the Reds and Padres for the second NL Wild Card spot.
But if Colorado develops players who don’t sink so deep into their development that winning slides on the priority list, it’s a forward step. Sam Hilliard and Yonathan Daza (before he recently sustained a left hand laceration) had prevented Hampson from getting playing time in center, and middle-infield action is rarely available.
While waiting for his chances, Hampson developed his pinch-hitting skills. Saturday’s game-tying two-run home run off Noé Ramirez in the eighth inning was his second as a pinch-hitter, and he is 5-for-19 (.263) in those situations. Hampson has developed his pinch-hitting approach so he can help influence the game even if he is not in the starting lineup.
“I just tried to take the at-bat as if I’d been playing all game,” Hampson said. “I don’t focus on too much of a difference or try to hype myself up any more in those spots. It’s awesome to come off the bench and help your team.”
Rockies manager Bud Black said there is an art to developing players in the Majors.
“It’s the messaging, that the expectation is to win and also improve -- as a team and as a player,” Black said. “Players have to learn that the most important thing is to play a good, sound ballgame. And within that game, that week, that month, they need to get better. They’re improving and learning at this level.”
Key players in the first two games against the D-backs -- second baseman Brendan Rodgers, whose defense turned Friday night’s game, and Hampson and catcher Elias Díaz, who knocked tying and winning homers on Saturday -- overcame early-season struggles. All have had their first true shots at regular playing time.
Connor Joe, starting in place of the injured Raimel Tapia (right big toe sprain) in left field, did most of his improving during a lengthy stint at Triple-A Albuquerque. Rookie relievers Lucas Gilbreath and Ben Bowden also needed Triple-A tune-ups. Righty reliever Justin Lawrence and infielder Joshua Fuentes are at Albuquerque now.
Black said whether it’s playing time in the Majors or a trip to the Minors, results are best when the player is clear on his assignment, and he and the staff exhibit patience when necessary.
“There are the conversations that we have with all our players,” Black said. “Players are realistic. The self-evaluation tool is important. They need to know where they need to grow and what they need to improve upon.
“It’s hard to see major jumps at the Major League level. It happens over time. So as long as us coaches see the growth, we’re fine with it, even if it’s slow.”