Rockies prospect Sam Howard started the first game of a double header for Double-A Hartford yesterday and carved up the Portland Sea Dogs. Howard went the full seven innings, allowing just one hit and one walk while throwing just 83 pitches. One may be inclined to hem and haw about it being just seven innings, but it still counts as complete game shutout. In fact, it may be even more impressive, considering the fact that it saved the bullpen for Game 2, which the Yard Goats lost 8-1.
Sam Howard excelled last year in 11 starts in the California League, putting up a 2.