PHILADELPHIA – Over the course of a grinding season — and through losing streaks, critical headlines and self-doubt which can often creep out of nowhere — every major league clubhouse needs a guy who shifts the collective mindset. Who reminds everyone else of the joy rooted in the intensely difficult game that is their job.
Gerardo Parra, with his high-wattage smile, persistent hustle and a love for baseball which he wears on his sleeve, does just that for the Rockies. And the veteran outfielder’s energy has become even more imperative amid Colorado’s slide from first to third in the National League West.