TUCSON — The strength of the Rockies’ bullpen could depend on two relievers who are happy to be out of Oakland. Huston Street lost his closer’s job to injury last season, and Alan Embree was a bit miffed after the A’s fell out of contention that they didn’t work out a trade when he was claimed on waivers.
“I have some good friends over there, but I really don’t want to talk about it,” Street said. “I am just very happy to be here.”
Added Embree, “I had good times and bad times.”
Street, battling Manuel Corpas for the closer’s role, made progress Monday after adjusting his delivery. Street isn’t pushing off as violently with his back leg in order to reduce the strain on a stiff quadriceps muscle. Ian Stewart tagged the right-hander for a titanic home run in an intrasquad game, but Street retired the other three batters he faced, including Todd Helton on a soft groundball to short.
“I felt good,” Street said.
Embree, who will pitch today against the A’s, served as mentor for young Oakland pitchers. He briefly worked as the closer last season before seeing his role change dramatically during the final weeks. He will be leaned on heavily after the loss of Taylor Buchholz to a sprained elbow.
Helton hits again.
Helton is serious about making up for lost time. He got six at-bats in Monday’s scrimmage, recording a double and single off starter Jason Marquis. Helton’s back will be evaluated today, but he is expected to play against Oakland before taking a day off. Helton’s home run Sunday still had his teammates buzzing.
“The game is not supposed to be that easy,” shortstop Troy Tulowitzki said.
Footnotes.
Greg Smith, still battling the lingering effects of the flu, will not pitch today. A candidate for the fifth starter’s spot, he’s not expected back until Wednesday or Thursday after getting sick over the weekend. . . . Oakland outfielder Matt Holliday is expected to travel to Tucson for today’s game at Hi Corbett Field, his first against his former teammates. . . . Luis Gonzalez, Chris Frey, Wil Rosario and Esmil Rogers were assigned to minor-league camp.
Troy E. Renck, The Denver Post
