Unsung Defense Elevates Rockies

National League

For all their hitting prowess, the Colorado Rockies won this one on defense.

Vinny Castilla homered, Dante Bichette’s sacrifice fly broke a 1-1 tie in the seventh inning and the Rockies made spectacular plays in the field to beat Montreal 3-2 Monday.

The Rockies are 7-1 against the Expos this year, including taking three of four in Montreal on this trip.

“The defense is very underrated on this team,” said Mike Kingery, whose diving catch of a shallow fly ball with the bases loaded in the fifth preserved a 2-1 lead.

“We really don’t have a weak link, with (Walt) Weiss at short and (Larry) Walker in right.”

Armando Reynoso (3-3) allowed a run on five hits in six innings to snap a personal three-game losing skid. He struck out two and walked two.

Padres 5, Astros 1

San Diego

Tony Gwynn hit three consecutive RBI singles and Andy Ashby allowed four hits in 7-1/3 innings as San Diego beat Houston in the first game since Astros star Jeff Bagwell broke his left hand.

Gwynn went 3 for 3, singling in the third, fifth and seventh innings to increase his batting average to .362, best in the major leagues.

Mets 4, Pirates 1

New York Rico

Brogna hit a two-run homer and Bill Pulsipher pitched a nine-hitter as New York beat Pittsburgh.

Pulsipher (3-5) settled down after allowing three doubles in the first four innings, retiring 10 in a row at one point, striking out six and walking none for the first time this season.

Marlins vs. Cardinals

Miami

Today’s anticipated arrival of tropical storm Erin forced the Florida Marlins to cancel their game against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Because it was to be the final game of the season series, it is not expected to made up, unless either team is involved in a playoff race.

Players of the week

Houston pitcher Doug Drabek and Los Angeles first baseman Eric Karros shared N.L. player of the week honors.