Thairo Estrada's 4 RBIs powered the Rockies to a 7-6 win over the Astros on July 3, 2025. Can Colorado build on this rare home victory at Coors Field?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Happy Fourth of July, Rockies fans! While the official fireworks are tonight, Thairo Estrada provided some of his own a day early, powering the Rox to a thrilling 7-6 victory over the Houston Astros at Coors Field. It was a much-needed win, a rare bright spot in what has been a historically difficult season at 20th and Blake.
The Rockies improved to 9-34 at home, still the worst home start in modern MLB history.
The Rockies jumped on the Astros early, thanks to Thairo Estrada. He launched a two-run homer in the first inning and finished the night with a crucial four RBIs, single-handedly keeping the offense churning. Ryan Ritter chipped in with a timely two-run single in the fourth, providing just enough cushion. Even Tyler Freeman got in on the action, extending his on-base streak to 18 games with two singles. It was a complete, if tense, offensive effort that finally rewarded the home crowd.
Let's not get ahead of ourselves. While Thursday's win was fun, it doesn't erase the painful context of this season. The victory only improved the team's home record to a dismal 9-34, the worst start for any team at home in the modern era. The club has also lost all 14 of its home series this year, a staggering statistic. Kyle Freeland battled through six innings, giving up five runs, before Juan Mejia (1-0) earned his first big-league win and Seth Halvorsen escaped a ninth-inning jam for his seventh save.
While the big-league club fights for every win, the real Fourth of July fireworks might be happening in the minor leagues. On Friday, prospect Blake Wright put on a show with a five-hit game, showcasing the kind of offensive talent the system is cultivating. He's not alone. This week, top draft pick Charlie Condon recorded his first hit at the Double-A level, and slugger Robert Calaz blasted two home runs on July 2. These performances are the building blocks for a better future, offering a genuine sense of hope that brighter days are ahead.
As the Rockies welcome the Chicago White Sox to town for a weekend series, the challenge remains immense. Antonio Senzatela will take the mound Friday, hoping to build on the momentum of Thursday's win. While fans will cheer for another victory, the real story to watch is the slow, steady development of the next wave of Rockies talent. One win is great, but a promising future is even better.
