Grit Index: D-backs’ bats silenced in loss to Rockies

Ian Kennedy made one bad pitch Friday night, but it was one too many at Coors Field.

Kennedy hung a fastball to Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and the two-time All-Star made him pay. Tulowitzki’s two-run shot in the fourth inning proved to be the difference, as the Rockies behind a strong outing from Jhoulys Chacin shut down the D-backs 3-1.

The Good:

Despite taking the loss, Ian Kennedy threw the ball fairly well Friday. The D-backs ace gave up three hits and struck out six over six innings of work,

Kennedy, however, moves to 1-2 to start 2013.

Didi Gregorius also had his second straight two-hit performance for the D-backs.

The Bad:

The D-backs offense never really got going Friday night in the Mile High City. Arizona’s lone offensive threat came in the top of the fifth inning, but following back-to-back singles by A.J. Pollock and Didi Gregorius and walk to Cliff Pennington, Ian Kennedy grounded out to the frame.

The D-backs lone run came on an error in the ninth inning.

He Said It:

“No one is out there trying to walk somebody. That’s one of the things we pride ourselves on. In the past few years, we’ve been one of the more efficient teams with that.” — D-backs manager Kirk Gibson on Ian Kennedy’s three walks vs. Rockies

Noted:

• Chacin, who struck out five batters over 6 1/3 innings, left the game in the seventh inning with an apparent lower body injury.

• Paul Goldschmidt’s 15-game streak of reaching base ended Friday. He went 0-for-4 with three strikeouts.

• Coors Field has quickly become one of the better home field advantages in 2013. The Rockies are 7-0 at home this season.

Up Next:

The D-backs continue their three-game series with the Rockies Saturday night. Right-hander Trevor Cahill will get the start for Arizona. He will be opposed by left-hander Jorge De La Rosa of the Rockies. First pitch is set for 5:10 p.m.