35 Facts About Astros Vs. Rockies

Astros vs. Rockies: A Baseball Showdown

The Houston Astros and Colorado Rockies may not have the longest rivalry in Major League Baseball, but their matchups are always exciting. Here are some fascinating facts about these two teams and their encounters.

Historical Background

Understanding the history of these teams gives context to their matchups.

1. The Houston Astros were established in 1962 as the Houston Colt .45s before changing their name to the Astros in 1965.
2. The Colorado Rockies joined Major League Baseball in 1993 as an expansion team.
3. The Astros moved from the National League to the American League in 2013, making interleague play with the Rockies more frequent.
4. The Rockies' first game was played on April 5, 1993, against the New York Mets.
5. The Astros' first game was on April 10, 1962, against the Chicago Cubs.

Memorable Games

Some games between the Astros and Rockies have been unforgettable.

6. On June 18, 2018, the Rockies defeated the Astros 2-1 in a 10-inning thriller.
7. The Astros won a high-scoring game 14-11 against the Rockies on July 7, 2019.
8. On July 24, 2018, the Rockies beat the Astros 3-2 with a walk-off home run by Charlie Blackmon.
9. The Astros and Rockies played their first interleague game on June 8, 2003, with the Rockies winning 5-4.
10. The Rockies' largest margin of victory over the Astros was a 12-1 win on June 8, 2003.

Star Players

Both teams have had their share of star players who left a mark on these matchups.

11. Nolan Arenado, a former Rockies third baseman, is known for his defensive prowess and powerful bat.
12. Jose Altuve, the Astros' second baseman, has been a consistent offensive force.
13. Todd Helton, a Rockies legend, played his entire career with Colorado and was known for his hitting.
14. Jeff Bagwell, an Astros Hall of Famer, was a key player in the team's success during the 1990s and early 2000s.
15. Carlos Correa, a former Astros shortstop, was known for his clutch hitting in crucial games.

Stadiums

The venues where these teams play add to the excitement of their matchups.

16. The Astros play their home games at Minute Maid Park, which opened in 2000.
17. The Rockies' home field is Coors Field, known for its hitter-friendly conditions due to the high altitude.
18. Minute Maid Park features a retractable roof, making it unique among MLB stadiums.
19. Coors Field has the largest outfield in Major League Baseball, which often leads to high-scoring games.
20. The train at Minute Maid Park is a nod to Houston's railroad history and moves along the outfield wall when the Astros hit a home run.

Fan Culture

The fans of both teams bring energy and passion to every game.

21. Astros fans are known for their "Let's Go Astros" chant, which echoes through Minute Maid Park.
22. Rockies fans often participate in the "Rockies Roll Call," where they cheer for each player as they take the field.
23. The Astros' mascot, Orbit, is a fan favorite and known for his playful antics.
24. Dinger, the Rockies' dinosaur mascot, entertains fans with his energetic performances.
25. Both teams have dedicated fan bases that travel well, often filling opposing stadiums with their colors.

Records and Achievements

Both teams have impressive records and achievements that highlight their success.

26. The Astros won their first World Series in 2017.
27. The Rockies reached the World Series for the first time in 2007 but lost to the Boston Red Sox.
28. The Astros have won multiple division titles in both the National and American Leagues.
29. The Rockies have made several playoff appearances, often as a Wild Card team.
30. The Astros' 2019 season saw them win a franchise-record 107 games.

Unique Moments

Some moments between these teams are truly unique and memorable.

31. On July 3, 2016, the Rockies and Astros played a game that featured a combined 10 home runs.
32. The Astros' Justin Verlander pitched a complete game shutout against the Rockies on August 24, 2018.
33. The Rockies' Trevor Story hit three home runs in a single game against the Astros on September 5, 2018.
34. The Astros and Rockies once played a game that lasted 13 innings, with the Rockies eventually winning 5-4 on June 8, 2003.
35. The Astros' Yuli Gurriel hit for the cycle against the Rockies on July 29, 2019, becoming the first Astro to do so since 2013.

Final Whistle on Astros vs. Rockies

Astros vs. Rockies matchups have given baseball fans some unforgettable moments. From record-breaking performances to nail-biting finishes, these games never fail to entertain. Both teams have their unique strengths and histories, making each encounter a must-watch.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or just enjoy a good game, knowing these facts adds another layer of excitement. The rivalry may not be as old as some others, but it’s packed with action and drama. Keep an eye on future games; you never know when another record might be shattered or a new star might emerge.

So, next time you catch an Astros vs. Rockies game, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the history and significance behind every pitch and swing. Enjoy the game, and may the best team win!