DENVER -- The Rockies have already confirmed that second-year shortstop Ezequiel Tovar is a key member of this team's future. Now, they've begun foreshadowing their belief that once this team is fully formed, Tovar is likely to hit toward the top of the lineup.

Tovar, who's in the first year of a seven-year, $63.5 million guaranteed contract extension, has batted exclusively either second (when Charlie Blackmon has started) or first in the past 13 games. While the Rockies have largely struggled offensively during the worst start (5-17) in club history, Tovar has shown signs of being fit for the higher spots.

In those 13 games, Tovar has batted .315 with three doubles and six RBIs. But he is by no means complete, as evidenced by the 19 strikeouts in that stretch.

“I would say it’s still a work in progress,” Rockies hitting coach Hensley Meulens said. “There are big strides that he has made from last year. Once he comprehends what he shouldn’t swing at, he’s going to get better pitches to hit.”

The scouting report is to set Tovar up for the outside breaking ball, but he is trying to concentrate on being ready for pitches that are closer to him. In the 10th inning of Sunday’s 2-1 victory over the Mariners, closer Andrés Muñoz had Tovar down, 0-2. Muñoz threw a 99 mph sinker down and in, and Tovar shot it to the first-base side to drive in the tying run and set up Ryan McMahon for the winner.

“It’s easier said than done, but he’s really working hard,” Meulens said. “Little by little, he’s getting there.”