Tucson Uncertainty and dominance intersected this weekend, leaving Aaron Cook as the Rockies’ opening day starter.
Manager Clint Hurdle confirmed the decision today after the Rockies’ 12-2 win over the San Francisco Giants. Hurdle indicated that he had been leaning Cook’s way, and when Jeff Francis was suspended, it made sense to give Cook the plum assignment April 2 against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Coors Field. Cook has posted a 2.35 ERA this spring, including a scorless outing today.
“Why? Just because,” Hurdle said with a smile. “He’s worked hard and battled through adversity on the field and a lot of adversity off the field (because of surgeries to relieve blood clots in his lungs in September of 2004). I am proud of him.”
Francis will appeal his five-game suspension, leaving him available until the Rockies’ April 23-25 trip to New York for his hearing. Hurdle, however, didn’t want any discipline to possibly interfere. He told Cook of the decision two hours before today’s game.
The 28-year-old responded with his best outing of the spring.
“I mixed in all of my pitches,” said Cook. “I am usually someone who gives up a lot of hits. But I feel like I am doing a better job now.”
Cook went 9-15 with a 4.23 ERA last season.
