Rockies Set Franchise Record with 23 Runs in Las Vegas Showdown

LAS VEGAS (AP) — In a stunning display of offensive power, the Colorado Rockies scored a staggering 23 runs against the Oakland Athletics on a blistering Sunday afternoon in Las Vegas, shattering the team's previous scoring records. With temperatures soaring to 101 degrees at Las Vegas Ballpark, the Rockies showcased their hitting prowess in a way that left the local pitchers wishing for shelter.

Willi Castro was a standout performer, driving in seven runs, while Hunter Goodman achieved a personal best with five hits. The Rockies' explosive offense included a total of six home runs, with Castro and Goodman each contributing two. Troy Johnston and TJ Rumfield also joined in the power parade as Colorado (27-45) snapped a three-game losing streak.

The Athletics, who are slated to move permanently to Las Vegas in 2028, experienced a whirlwind of action during their six-game homestand, which included a remarkable 102 total runs scored across the series against the Brewers and Rockies. Goodman expressed some skepticism about how major league games will play out in the future, noting the differences between the current outdoor setting and the upcoming $2 billion stadium being built on the Las Vegas Strip, which will be enclosed.

Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer, reflecting on the game, acknowledged the challenging conditions, stating, “This is a very, very tough environment to play baseball.” Castro's performance included a grand slam in the eighth inning, contributing to a total of 24 hits for the Rockies—just one shy of the franchise record set in 2011.

Despite the lopsided score, the A’s (35-36) had bright spots, with Max Muncy and Tyler Soderstrom both hitting home runs and Zack Gelof extending his hitting streak to 18 games. Tomoyuki Sugano (7-4) secured the win, even after allowing eight runs in five innings, while Eiberson Castellano made an impressive debut, pitching three scoreless innings. The Athletics will head back to West Sacramento on Monday for their next series against the Pittsburgh Pirates.