Colorado Rockies Spring Training Wrap-Up: Week One

As we make our way through Spring Training, there’s a lot of new names out there and many different things going on around Rockies camp. On each Friday of March, we’ll be reviewing three big things that happened in camp.

Relax on the Tyler Matzek takes, everyone.

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Matzek struggled again in his first outing of spring, walking two, allowing three hits and three runs without recording an out. This isn’t a good thing by any means, but it’s also the first week of Spring Training. Players struggle early as they use this time to lock into game mode. They use this time to get better, improve themselves and prepare for a long baseball season. Matzek brings a lot of scrutiny considering his past, but one game is nothing to be scared of. If it becomes a trend, then you can start doubting him. The one thing Matzek needs is belief and support, and I’m still all aboard the Matzek train.

CarGo at first base?

If you follow the Rockies on Snapchat, you have had access to an inside look at some spring practices, team buffets and some game footage. You would also have seen this snap:

Yes, that is the illustrious Carlos Gonzalez at first base during practice. Does it mean anything? A small amount, but not enough to illicit a reaction. Gonzalez is athletic enough to make the position change and, in theory, would allow him to save his legs for doing what he does best: hitting a baseball. Just keep an eye out for first base CarGo to be a trend.

Pitcher injuries.

David Hale (hamstring) and Chris Rusin (finger inflammation) both are the first casualties of the season. Hale pulled his hamstrung during live batting practice on Thursday last week, but believes it’s not serious. Rusin was scratched from his scheduled appearance earlier today because of inflammation on his middle finger of his throwing hand. Both players are competing for the spot-starter long relief spot and figure to be on the outside looking in.

Check in next Tuesday for an update on the position battles at shortstop, backup catcher and first base.

Next: Lyles Makes Spring Training Debut

On the mound, Jordan Lyles made his case for the starting rotation by throwing two innings, giving up two runs and striking out two.  Lyles has shown he can pitch in the majors over the past few seasons but staying off the Disabled List has proven to be a challenge.