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The Colorado Rockies have been on a bit of a slide in spring training lately, losing their last couple games and putting them at 8-7 so far. But spring training isn’t about the best record; it’s about working out the kinks and getting ready for the season opener in early April, and the Rockies seem well on their way to doing that.
Shortstop Troy Tulowitzki showed off his trademark power yesterday, belting a two-run homerun—his first of spring training—to help lift the Rockies over the Chicago Cubs 5-2 (via Purple Row).
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Meanwhile, closer Huston Street tells The Associated Press he’s put the demons of last season behind him and is heading into this year optimistic and excited. Street was one of the best closers in baseball for a stretch last year, saving 35 of 37 games only to choke in the National League division series against the Philadelphia Phillies. He had been so automatic throughout the year that the collapse seemed rather abrupt. But he says his teammates and the community have shown him tremendous support, and he’s moved on.
After some shoulder inflammation early in training camp, Street is feeling better and is expected to make his first spring training appearance later this week.
The rest of the pitching staff seems to be coming together, as well, with pitchers Rafael Betancourt and Manny Corpas looking solid in their recoveries. Both are coming off minor injuries, but the Rockies don’t want to push it, points out The Denver Post. The team is confident both will be ready for opening day.