Atkins hitting his stride as fearsome force at plate
Garrett Atkins, one of the game’s most unappreciated sluggers, continues to sizzle. He has more hits than any big-leaguer since April 16 and extended his hitting streak to nine games with a fourth-inning single. Atkins, who has started every game this season, has hits in 23 of his last 24 games overall.
Not center of attention.
The Padres interest in Triple-A center fielder Cory Sullivan cooled once they learned he was making $1 million this season. San Diego general manager Kevin Towers said he would give Jody Gerut a shot before considering a trade following the release of Jim Edmonds.
Different strokes.
Greg Maddux, a finesse artist, threw five pitches in the first inning. Ubaldo Jimenez, a fireballer, threw seven pitches to the first batter he faced. Troy E. Renck, The Denver Post
No Rockies pitcher has rocketed through the minor leagues as fast as Greg Reynolds (making his debut), an impressive feat because the 6-foot-7 right-hander missed much of last season with a shoulder injury. The second overall pick of the 2006 draft relies on his sinker, but isn’t afraid to mix in a slider and changeup. At 6-10, Chris Young (2-3, 4.31 ERA) features a strange delivery in which the ball appears to pop out of his uniform. Look for the Rockies to attempt to steal on Young, who has a slow motion and doesn’t hold runners well.
