Keibert Ruiz, Nationals set for improving Rockies

After struggling at the plate for much of the season, Washington catcher Keibert Ruiz is again showing why he is a key part of the Nationals' rebuilding plan.

Ruiz will look to continue his hot streak when the Nationals begin a three-game series against the visiting Colorado Rockies on Tuesday.

Ruiz homered for the third time in his last three appearances on Sunday, when Washington snapped a four-game losing streak with a 6-4 win over the Philadelphia Phillies.

The 26-year-old Ruiz has struck out just eight times in his last 137 at-bats since June 29.

"(Ruiz is) staying behind the ball a lot better," Washington manager Dave Martinez said. "He's able to use his hands a lot better, and he's driving the ball, which is awesome. We've always thought and we've seen it, that this is what Keibert can do."

The Nationals also have received a spark from rookie left fielder James Wood, who is hitting .373 (28-for-75) with three homers and 15 RBIs in his last 21 games.

Colorado is beginning a six-game road trip after taking two of three from the previously red-hot San Diego Padres over the weekend.

First baseman Michael Toglia has an 11-game hitting streak for the Rockies, who beat the Padres 3-2 on Sunday.

"Three rookie pitchers, eight innings, against a team in contention that has been playing great the last three weeks on a hot Sunday afternoon in an offensive environment," Colorado manager Bud Black said. "So great job. I'm proud of them."

Colorado's Nolan Jones was activated from the 10-day injured list on Sunday and is expected to see regular playing time in left field. Jones hasn't played since July 11 with a lower back strain.

Tuesday's matchup features a pair of left-handers as Colorado's Austin Gomber (3-8, 4.82 ERA) faces Nationals rookie DJ Herz (2-5, 4.25).

Gomber yielded two runs on six hits over six innings in a no-decision against the Arizona Diamondbacks last Tuesday. He also recorded his ninth straight start with one or zero walks.

"When I walk guys, I'm going to have a hard time, flat out," Gomber said. "I've just made it a priority over my career and been doing a good job of it this year just putting the ball in the strike zone, making guys earn their way on."

The 30-year-old Gomber is 2-2 with a 5.47 ERA in five career starts against Washington.

Herz is facing the Rockies for the second time this season. He allowed four runs (three earned) over 3 2/3 innings in a no-decision on June 21 at home.

The 23-year-old Herz pitched well in his last outing, giving up two runs over six innings in a 4-1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles on Wednesday.

"Just the key, like I always say, is get ahead," Herz said. "If I don't, get back to 1-1. We did a good job of that. All the pitches were working (Wednesday). That's the best my change-up's been, I think, (since) being up (in the major leagues)."

Herz owns a 3.65 ERA in eight home starts this season compared to a 5.50 mark in four outings away from Nationals Park.

--Field Level Media