CINCINNATI — Alexi Amarista was a good fit for the Rockies because he can play any position. In one big inning, he showed that’s not all he can do.
The shortstop had a three-run homer and a run-scoring single during Colorado’s eight-run rally on Friday night, and the Rockies extended the best start in their history with a 12-6 victory over the slumping Cincinnati Reds.
The Rockies lead the NL in wins at 27-16, their best mark through 43 games.
Amarista’s three-run shot off Lisalverto Bonilla (0-2) sparked the sixth-inning rally. The Rockies signed him in the offseason in part because manager Bud Black knew what he could do from their time together in San Diego.
“I’ve seen that from him before,” Black said. “That’s one of the things we talked about this winter when we were putting the roster together. We just thought he was a good fit because of his versatility. You can put him anywhere on the field and you feel good about his defense.
“He’s a very solid complementary player on a good team.”
Amarista is getting a chance to play more regularly with shortstop Trevor Story on the disabled list, showing why Black wanted him in Colorado.
