Rockies vs. Yankees
Rocktober: The Rockies' improbable run to the 2007 World Series.
The Colorado Rockies' 2007 season was the franchise's first postseason berth since 1995 and first winning season since 2000. They finished second in the National League West with a franchise record of 90 wins in 163 games and earned a playoff berth as the National League Wild Card team. The team lost the World Series to the Boston Red Sox, four games to none.
Quick Facts
- Rockies founded
- 1993
- Key venue
- Coors Field
- Notable era clash
- Late 1990s Expansion vs. Dynasty
- Rivalry type
- Cross-League; Occasional Intensity
Lore & Background
The Rockies' stretch run was among the greatest ever for a Major League Baseball team. Having a record of 76–72 at the start of play on September 16, they won 14 of their final 15 regular season games to win the wild card. The stretch culminated with a 9–8, 13-inning victory over the San Diego Padres in a one-game playoff for the wild card berth. The Rockies then swept their first seven playoff games to win the National League pennant — the franchise's first-ever pennant. At the start of the World Series, the Rockies had won a total of 21 out of 22 games. Fans and media nicknamed the run 'Rocktober'. The streak ended as the Rockies were swept in the World Series by the Boston Red Sox.
Reader's Guide
The Rockies ended the 162-game regular season with 89 wins and 73 losses, tied with the San Diego Padres for second place in the NL West and first in the NL Wild Card. A tie-breaker game was played on October 1, 2007, at Coors Field. The Rockies won 9–8 in 13 innings, sending them to only their second post-season in franchise history. The tie-breaker game counts toward regular season statistics, so the official 2007 win–loss record stands at 90-73. The Rockies drew 2,376,250 fans for the season, their highest total since 2002. The average home attendance was 28,978.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines the Rockies vs. Yankees rivalry?
This matchup contrasts the high-altitude optimism of Denver's expansion era with the storied dynasty tradition of the Bronx. It is driven more by identity differences than deep historical animosity or frequent battles.
Why do games at Coors Field stand out in this series?
The unique playing conditions create memorable moments that highlight the disparity between a young franchise and an established powerhouse. These settings amplify the clash of baseball worlds whenever they meet.
When did the Rockies start competing against the Yankees?
Competition began after Colorado joined Major League Baseball as an expansion team in 1993. The most notable clashes occurred during the late 1990s era of expansion versus dynasty.
How do their championship records compare?
New York holds a record 27 World Series titles, while the Rockies have not yet won a championship since their founding. This gap underscores the difference in pedigree between the two organizations.
Is this considered one of baseball's biggest feuds?
No, it lacks the intense geographical or historical rivalry seen with teams like the Red Sox or Giants. Instead, it is viewed as an occasional cross-league matchup with sporadic intensity rather than constant hostility.
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