Spring Training: Rockies pitching struggles again in 8-3 loss to Guardians

Colorado Rockies catcher Brett Sullivan led the game off with a solo shot to right against Cleveland Guardians right-hander Gavin Williams, who was one of the top pitchers in the second half of last season.

The Rockies claimed Troy Johnston off waivers from the Miami Marlins back in November 2025. The first baseman/outfielder, who's competing for a spot on the club's Opening Day roster, went 2-for-3 with a double and a two-RBI single.

Chase Dollander made his second start of the spring and pitched well, but he needs to be sharper when he's ahead in the count—especially at 0-2.

He had a 1-2 count on Chase DeLauter in the bottom of the first and gave up a double (which an everyday LF might've caught) that sailed past Johnston in left, putting runners on second and third with nobody out.

He minimized the damage in that inning after a hard-hit sacrifice fly off Jose Ramirez's bat gave the Guardians a 1-0 lead.

Dollander lasted two innings, allowing one run on one hit while striking out one.

Colorado's bullpen has been a major concern early in spring training. Through six combined innings, they gave up seven runs on nine hits, walked four batters, and struck out eight.

News and notes from Colorado's 8-3 loss to Cleveland.

• Zac Veen went 1-for-3 with a sharp single, crushing a hanging curveball from Williams.

• Adael Amador struggled in the loss, going 0-for-4 with a strikeout as he battles for a roster spot.

• Ryan Ritter went 1-for-3 with a run scored while manning the shortstop position today. Colorado has deployed him at several positions this spring, including second base, third base, and left field.

• Sean Sullivan is a name to watch as the season unfolds. The southpaw tossed 1.2 innings, allowing one run on two hits while issuing three walks and recording two strikeouts.

The Rockies will host the Los Angeles Dodgers Monday afternoon, with first pitch scheduled for 1:10 PM MST.