TUCSON — Starter Greg Smith will not pitch against Oakland on Tuesday, moved back again because of a lingering illness. Smith, who is competing for the fifth spot in the pitching rotation, came down with the flu over the weekend and was scratched from Sunday’s start.
Before he can pitch in a game, Smith must perform light exercise to prove his strength to the training staff. He likely won’t pitch until Wednesday at the earliest.
Jorge De La Rosa is still expected to start Tuesday despite bruising his left index finger on a bunt attempt during today’s intrasquad game.
Rockies make first cuts
The Rockies made their first roster moves after today’s intrasquad game.
Infielder Luis Gonzalez was the most notable name sent to minor-league camp. He is trying to jumpstart his career after spending time in Japan, but faces a logjam of corner outfielders and infielders at the big-league level.
The other moves were: pitcher Esmil Rogers optioned to Double-A Tulsa, while outfielder Chris Frey and catcher Wil Rosario reassigned to minor-league camp.
With today’s moves, the Rockies have 56 players remaining on the major-league roster.
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com
