Tanner Gordon Aims to Conclude Rockies’ Season on a Positive Note Against Mariners
The Colorado Rockies are preparing for their final showdown of the season against the playoff-bound Seattle Mariners, with Tanner Gordon taking the mound in what could be a pivotal moment for the young right-hander. Despite the Rockies’ struggles this year—evident in their position at the bottom of nearly every major pitching statistic—Gordon stands as a beacon of hope for the future.
Rockies’ Pitching Woes
The Rockies’ pitching staff has faced significant challenges throughout the 2023 season, ranking last in the league with a dismal 5.98 ERA, a mere 1,062 strikeouts, and allowing opponents to hit .296 against them. These numbers paint a grim picture; however, amidst the chaos, there are glimpses of promise.
Top prospects like Chase Dollander, who was a first-round pick, garner much attention. Meanwhile, McCade Brown has recently made the leap from Double-A, delivering the best performance of his fledgling MLB career. Yet, it’s Tanner Gordon who has shown considerable growth and resilience in his time on the mound.
Gordon’s Ascension
Gordon made his MLB debut last season, and while 2026 had its share of challenges for him, he has emerged as a pivotal player for the Rockies in the latter part of the season. Over his last seven starts, Gordon has posted an impressive ERA of under 4.00. Overall, he holds a 6.00 ERA across 14 starts, a figure inflated by some rough outings that have plagued the Rockies’ rotation.
Since being recalled from Triple-A on July 23 after a brief demotion, Gordon has faced tough competition. Notably, he recorded victories against formidable opponents like Hunter Brown of the Houston Astros and Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers, allowing just one earned run in each of those six-inning performances.
A Crucial Final Start
As he prepares to take on the Mariners, who have already clinched a playoff spot and are vying for a division title, Gordon finds himself at a crucial juncture. This game is not merely another appearance; it represents a significant opportunity to solidify his place in the Rockies’ future plans.
The Rockies are actively searching for reliable options to bolster their rotation, especially after a season marked by underwhelming pitching. Gordon’s recent form could position him as a key piece moving forward, and a strong showing against a playoff-caliber team would certainly enhance his candidacy for a more prominent role next season.
As the Rockies look to end their season on a high note, all eyes will be on Tanner Gordon. His performance against the Mariners could very well set the stage for his future in the league and the Rockies’ aspirations for improvement.
