MLB Preview: Donn Roach vs. Juan Nicasio

Apr 9, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Rockies pitcher Juan Nicasio (12) delivers a pitch during the first inning against the Chicago White Sox at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

The Colorado Rockies (24-20) are scuffling of late and need to get their bats going Sunday afternoon. Andrew Cashner was originally supposed to pitch today’s game but was placed on the disabled list due to elbow soreness. That’s a huge break for Colorado who look to get the bats going at Coors.

Juan Nicasio will look to help Colorado earn the series victory as he takes the hill Sunday afternoon. Nicasio currently sits at 4-2 on the season with a 3.77 ERA. The 27-year-old is coming off of a loss last Sunday against the Cincinnati Reds where he gave up four runs, two earned in six innings of work. In Nicasio’s last three starts, he has given up just three earned runs in 18.0 innings pitched.

Donn Roach, who is a reliever in the pen, will get the spot start from Andrew Cashner. Roach hasn’t pitched more than 4.1 innings this season so look for his outing to be short with help from the pen. The righty is currently 1-0 on the season with a 2.57 ERA as he has given up six earned runs in 21.0 innings. In those 21 innings, Roach has given up 24 hits, 8 walks, while striking out 13.

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: Wilin Rosario – C
8: DJ LeMahieu – 2B
9: Juan Nicasio – P

Game Notes:

• Wilin Rosario is activated off of the DL after missing 13 games and is batting 7th.
• Chase Headley is 6-for-15, (.400) lifetime with 2 HR, 3 RBI against Juan Nicasio.
• Juan Nicasio is 3-0 with a 2.89 ERA vs. Padres.

First-pitch between the San Diego Padres and Colorado Rockies is scheduled for 4:10 PM ET, 2:10 PM MT.