PHOENIX — With Arizona left-hander Randy Johnson starting tonight, Rockies’ slugger Todd Helton will receive only his second day off this season, replaced at first base by Jeff Baker.
Manager Clint Hurdle said over the weekend that he would be looking for ways to spell Helton and third baseman Garrett Atkins, the only Rockies player to start every game this year. Atkins will start tonight at third base.
Helton continues to get on base regularly, but has three extra base hits in his past 13 games. The Rockies are looking to improve against the Diamondbacks, who have beaten them five out of six games this season.
Lefty Jeff Francis, still seeking his first victory, will start for the Rockies.
A look at the lineup:
CF Taveras
SS Barmes
LF Holliday
3B Atkins
RF Spilborghs
1B Baker
C Torrealba
2B Herrera
P Francis
