Top 25 MLB players to watch in October

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LOS ANGELES, CA – SEPTEMBER 07: Pitcher Jon Gray #55 of the Colorado Rockies pitches during the first inning of the MLB game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium on September 7, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. The Rockies defeated the Dodgers 9-1. (Photo by Victor Decolongon/Getty Images) /

21. Kyle Freeland/Jon Gray

The Colorado Rockies will have two options to make the start in the NL Wild Card Game (it was touch and go for a few weeks, but their postseason spot looks safe). Manager Bud Black has to choose between rookie Kyle Freeland and Jon Gray. The left-hander and the right-hander have combined for a 19-14 record with a sub-4.00 ERA on the year.

Freeland’s innings have been managed well this year, and he will be able to pitch in the postseason without blowing too far past his innings from last year. Gray showed flashes of dominance last season, but was slowed at the start of the 2017 season, but was slowed by a stress reaction at the start of the year. His arm is very fresh heading into October.

Gray and Freeland have both pitched well against Arizona this season, with Gray holding the slight edge. Both have pitched against the Diamondbacks three times, so there’s no ambushing them with an unfamiliar pitcher. Freeland has begun wearing down in the second half after ending the first half with a near no-hitter. Look for Gray to take the ball in the playoff game for the Rockies, but don’t be surprised if Freeland is the choice.

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