The last time the Rockies opened a series at Citizens Bank Park, they faced Cole Hamels and lost 2-1. Jorge de la Rosa threw a complete game that day, allowing just two runs (one with help of a passed ball, one with help of a wild pitch). De la Rosa blew out his UCL in his next start.
Seth Smith hit a pinch hit double to lead off the ninth in that game and was stranded at second base. One of the two pitchers acquired for Smith in the offseason will replace de la Rosa opposite Cole Hamels on the lineup card tonight as the Rockies try to win their second game in 12 tries. It is kind of hard to believe they won 7 of 8 from May 28-June 4, isn't it?