Phoenix – With an MRI scheduled for Kaz Matsui’s back and the lack of a middle infielder, Clint Barmes rejoined the Rockies today.
Matsui was placed on the disabled list with lower back spasms. With Matsui showing no improvement, Barmes was scratched from the Triple-A lineup in Tucson today, and headed West up I-10 to get back in the big leagues.
Matsui estimated he could be ready in around a week, but the Rockies couldn’t wait because of their roster construction. With Jamey Carroll taking over for Matsui at second base, the team didn’t have a reserve middle infielder. Jeff Baker would have gone in second base last night, with Carroll shifting to shortstop if Rockies had taken the lead after Troy Tulowitzki was removed for a pinch-hitter.
“It’s still stiff,” said Matsui, who missed several weeks last season with a back injury while in Triple-A Colorado Springs. “I feel bad that I am hurting the team.”
Matsui, expected to have an MRI in Denver on Monday, has been arguably the Rockies’ best offensive weapon, hitting .361 with five stolen bases in five attempts. He was unsure if he hurt his back trying to field a pop-up last night or on a swing attempt.
Barmes lost out in his bid for the starting shortstop job to Troy Tulowitzki in spring training. He’s slowly begun regaining his hitting stroke with the Sky Sox and played terrific defense in the small sample size, giving the nod over Omar Quintanilla. Barmes will No. 21.
Staff Writer Troy Renck
can be reached at 303-954-1301
