With no small amount of effort, German Marquez helped pad the Rockies' lead in the NL West and even broke a few records along the way. Are the playoffs in the Rockies' future?

German Marquez. Remember that name, because you'll be hearing it much more often!

With eight straight strikeouts, Marquez tied a Major League record and broke the club's single-season strikeout record. And thanks to the 23-year-old right-hander, the Rockies shut out the Phillies last night, earning a 14-0 win -- the Rockies have outscored the Phillies by 34-4 over the last three games in the four-game series.

Colorado’s offense received another boost from David Dahl, who hit his third home run in three games. Trevor Story also added a two-run, 465-foot home run, which led to an impressive seven defensive changes late in the game.

And now, the Rockies are that much closer to clinching a spot in the postseason.

But, is it too soon to celebrate? I mean, there are still four more games left, including the final game against the Phillies this afternoon.

"... So we have to keep our heads in the same spot, just stay focused and continue to play good baseball," said Carlos Gonzalez in a statement. "Anything can happen in four days. But we're right around where we want to be."

The Rockies are playing "relaxed," according to Dahl, which is when they play their best baseball and are in control of their own destiny. At today's game, the Rockies are starting RHP Antonio Senzatela on the mound and with their bats hot, they're looking good to sweep the series with the PhIllies and take a full game lead over the Dodgers.

Oh! And don't forget, since the Rockies had more than seven runs in last night's game, you'll score four regular crunchy tacos for $2 at Taco Bell! Offer is only valid today, September 27, between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. at participating locations. Click here to learn more about the promotion.

What do you think, Colorado? Will we have another run of Rocktober like we did back in 2007? Can the Rockies pull through and make it to the playoffs? Or is all of this merely a fluke? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Did you know that former Bronco Demarcus Ware is on this season of Dancing with the Stars?