Giambi And Tulowitzki Knock One Hit Each In Rehab Appearance

Jason Giambi and Troy Tulowitzki both made their first rehab appearances Friday night for the AA Tulsa Drillers. Each went 1-3 in the game, with Tulo batting 3rd and Giambi batting cleanup. The Drillers lost to the pesky Arkansas Travelers by a final score of 8-2.

Unfortunately it would seem that little to no information was gained as far as the true readiness of either star player to return to the team and make their full contributions. Tulo knocked a double but, according to an update from Troy Renck of the Denver Post, made no defensive plays before exiting the game in favor of Warren Schaeffer. While it is good to know that his swing appears to be back in top form, the real test will come when Tulo is forced to move laterally to make plays on defense. After all, it is his electrifying, albeit sometimes goofy, jump throws ranging to either direction that make him the Gold Glove defender that he is and make him a true franchise player.

Giambi appeared as the designated hitter, meaning we did not learn anything other than something we already knew: it makes a lot of sense for Jason Giambi to be a designated hitter.

One other note: super prospect Nolan Arenado, who normally does the heavy lifting in the middle of the Drillers lineup, was given the rare opportunity to bat 2nd in tonight’s game. The role apparently suited him, as he knocked 3 hits of his own.

One final note: Parker Frasier, son of Root Sports commentator George, started the game. So you can expect to hear about that for roughly 3/4 of the broadcast tomorrow. You’ve been warned.