MLB Preview: Jordan Lyles vs. Alfredo Simon

Apr 2, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Jordan Lyles (24) throws against the Miami Marlins during the first inning at Marlins Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The Colorado Rockies (22-16) are now losers of two-straight as Joey Votto hit a walk-off home run to center last night to lift the Cincinnati Reds, 4-3. Colorado looks to get back into the win column Saturday night with standout offseason acquisition Jordan Lyles taking the hill.

Lyles, 23, has done nothing but win ball games for the Rockies since being acquired from the Houston Astros. In his most recent outing against the Texas Rangers Monday night, he would throw eight dominant innings — most by a Rockies pitcher this season. He would give up seven hits, two runs, two earned, one walk while striking out five. What’s more impressive is his sinker was on, getting 15 groundball outs facing 30 batters; 50% GB.

Alfredo Simon will counter Lyles for the Reds. He too has been a pleasant surprise as he is currently 4-1 on the season with a 1.99 ERA. The 33-year-old has recorded an abundant of groudball outs as well, as he collected 14 of them in his win against the Milwaukee Brewers Sunday afternoon. He would pitch seven innings, giving up five hits, three runs, three earned while giving up two home runs.

Rockies Lineup:

1: Charlie Blackmon – RF
2: Corey Dickerson – CF
3: Troy Tulowitzki – SS
4: Carlos Gonzalez – LF
5: Nolan Arenado – 3B
6: Justin Morneau – 1B
7: Jordan Pacheco – C
8: DJ LeMahieu – 2B
9: Jordan Lyles – P

Game Notes:

• Nolan Arenado (28 games) and Carlos Gonzalez (10 games) hitting streaks were snapped in Colorado’s 4-3 loss last night to Cincinnati.
• Colorado’s current roster combined is 8-for-34 (.235 average) against Reds starter Alfredo Simon.
• Reds shortstop Zach Cozart is 5-for-7 lifetime against Rockies starter Jordan Lyles with two doubles, one home run, and six RBI’s.
• Reds activated closer Aroldis Chapman off of the disabled list — was stuck in the head with a line drive during Spring Training.

First-pitch between the Colorado Rockies and Cincinnati Reds is scheduled for 7:10 PM ET, 5:10 PM MT.