Productive day for D-backs’ non-roster pitchers in loss to Rockies

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – The Arizona Diamondbacks have now dropped two in a row in spring training, losing Monday’s game to the Colorado Rockies 4-2.

Kris Medlen, who is competing for a long reliever position in the bullpen, got the start for the D-backs in place of Zack Godley. Godley instead threw an intrasquad game on a back field at Salt River Fields.

Medlen was solid in the spot start for Arizona. He gave up one hit and no runs while striking out one in two innings of work. He allowed one walk.

“He threw the ball extremely well,” commented D-backs manager Torey Lovullo after the game. “We reversed our plans a little bit, and on a moment’s notice he took the ball and gave us two solid innings. Nice outing for him.”

Medlen played for Triple-A Gwinnett, Double-A Mississippi, and Single-A Adv. Florida in 2017. He had a combined record of 5-8 with a 4.95 ERA. He was signed by the D-backs on Jan. 22.

Pitchers Antonio Bastardo and Fernando Salas were both solid in their relief appearances. Bastardo gave up no hits while striking out two batters in his inning of work. He has given up one earned run in 4.1 innings pitched this spring.

After giving up a leadoff single to Gerardo Parra in the fifth inning, Salas aggressively attacked the plate and struck out Trevor Story, David Dahl, and Tom Murphy consecutively.

Medlen, Bastardo and Salas are all competing for a roster spot.

Offensively, Ketel Marte continues to get on base, going 1-for-2 with a walk. He has now reached base safely in ten of his last thirteen plate appearances. David Peralta went 1-for-3, extending his hitting streak to six games.

The D-backs have a rare off day on Tuesday before the organization ramps up preparations for the regular season on Wednesday against the Cincinnati Reds.

BASE HITS

– Lovullo confirmed that Zack Greinke, who was possibly going to pitch in a backfield game in replacement of his next scheduled start, will pitch Wednesday against the Reds. First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 p.m at Salt River Fields.

– Pitcher Shelby Miller will throw his first bullpen session on Tuesday.

– Taijuan Walker and his wife, Heather, were serving free tacos based on a family recipe to fans before the game.

– The D-backs and the Reds will host a private celebration honoring the life of Kevin Towers on Wednesday evening in order to allow those who were unable to travel to San Diego to pay their respects.

– 11,077 were in attendance at Salt River Fields Monday afternoon.

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