Franchise Record on the Line

The Colorado Rockies experienced a devastating defeat at the hands of the San Diego Padres, concluding the game with an unprecedented score of 21-0. This marked the worst shutout loss in Rockies’ history and stands among the most significant shutout margins in Major League Baseball’s modern era, which began in 1900.

Padrés Patrol the Field

San Diego’s offensive display was dominant, beginning with five runs in the first inning and culminating with a total of 21 runs from 24 hits. Notably, seven out of nine starters contributed multiple hits during the game, showcasing a remarkable exhibition of batting prowess. Elias Díaz was the only member of the starting lineup without an RBI, yet he went 3 for 4 with two doubles and a walk.

The long ball was also a significant factor, with home runs from Xander Bogaerts, Jake Cronenworth, Jason Heyward, Gavin Sheets, and Fernando Tatis Jr. The Padres capitalized on scoring opportunities, achieving .526 with runners in scoring position.

Historical Context of the Loss

This record-setting defeat represents the tenth instance in Rockies history where the team surrendered 20 or more runs in a game, with nine of those instances occurring at Coors Field. Colorado’s previous worst shutout loss was 17-0 against the Florida Marlins on September 17, 1995.

This loss means the Rockies now share a dubious honor with the 1988 Baltimore Orioles, both teams having lost 33 of their first 39 games in a season. A follow-up loss in their next match against the Padres could give Colorado the worst record through the first 40 games in baseball history.

Recent Performance Overview

The Rockies have suffered greatly in recent weeks, with a particularly troubling pattern over the past six games. They have been outscored 72-21, mirroring a season-long struggle evident in their substantial negative run differential of -134, with the next closest being -67 by the Miami Marlins.

Here’s a brief look at their recent games:

• Saturday: 21-0 loss to Padres
• Friday: 13-9 loss to Padres
• Thursday: 11-1 and 10-2 losses to Tigers (doubleheader)
• Wednesday: 8-6 loss to Tigers
• Monday: 9-3 loss to Giants

Future Outlook

The Rockies’ current trajectory suggests they are on pace to eventually break the record for the fewest wins in a season in modern MLB history, a grim expectation after their 2025 performance thus far. By comparison, the Chicago White Sox set a modern record last season with 121 losses, but approached the first 39 games with a slightly better record at 11-28.

Pads Take the Lead

On a brighter note for the Padres, their commanding victory propelled them to first place in the National League West, highlighting their current strong overall performance with an impressive record of 25-13. Right-handed pitcher Stephen Kolek notched a complete game shutout, joining the ranks of the few who have accomplished this feat at Coors Field.