The Rockies were feeling a lot better this morning and last night’s win was only partly responsible.
Pitcher Aaron Cook threw a side session before the game and said there were no problems with his previously stiff back. He said he hopes to pitch Sunday in the series finale at Washington.
Club officials expect to make a decision today. Given that he threw all his pitches pain free, the latest Cook would likely pitch is Tuesday in Los Angeles.
Third baseman Garrett Atkins also returned to the clubhouse following his bout with strep throat. He has lost five pounds after being able to eat only a protein shake and a quesadilla over the past two days. He consumed a big breakfast today and expects to be available to hit even though he’s not in the starting lineup.
“It was the worst thing having to sit at home and watch the games. You don’t even feel like you are part of the team,” Atkins said.
In an interesting twist, Clint Barmes took groundballs at first base this morning. That would give the Rockies more versatility if necessary. Barmes has played all of the other infield positions and right field this season.
The Rockies are looking to salvage this homestand with a series win today against the Diamondbacks. Glendon Rusch starts opposite of Dan Haren. The Rockies are 2-9 against Arizona this season. A win would pull the Rockies to within seven games of the Diamondbacks if the Dodgers lose. Los Angeles and Arizona are tied for the division lead.
A look at today’s lineups:
Diamondbacks (61-59)
SS Stephen Drew
CF Chris Young
LF Conor Jackson
RF Adam Dunn
3B Mark Reynolds
1B Chad Tracy
C Chris Snyder
2B Chris Burke
RHP Dan Haren
Rockies (54-68, eight games back)
2B Clint Barmes
CF Willy Taveras
LF Matt Holliday
RF Brad Hawpe
3B Ian Stewart
SS Troy Tulowitzki
1B Jeff Baker
C Yorvit Torrealba
LHP Glendon Rusch
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com
