Rockies vs. Brewers

The Brewers will welcome the Colorado Rockies to town on Monday, to play four games to open up regular season play. This is the first time since 2014 the crew begins the year at home.

After losing three key players to injury during spring training, the Colorado Rockies are eager to turn the page with Monday’s season’s opener against the host Milwaukee Brewers. The Rockies saw first baseman, Ian Desmond, catcher Tom Murphy and outfielder David Dahl go down with injuries this spring but could still have the firepower to surprise in the NL West.

While Colorado hopes to have its trio of injured players back in late April, the Rockies appear to have the pieces in place to contend under new manager Bud Black. The Rockies are especially encouraged by their revamped bullpen, which added veteran Greg Holland to a proven group led by Adam Ottavino, Mike Dunn, and Jake McGee. The rebuilding Brewers must contend with the World Series champion Chicago Cubs in the NL Central but hope to take a step forward with several new faces, including closer Neftali Perez. Milwaukee also has a pair of intriguing names at first base, where Eric Thames hopes to continue his success from the Korean Baseball Organization while holding off a challenge from 26-year-old Jesus Aguilar, whose stellar spring training stats earned him a roster spot.

Junior Guerra is set to make his first opening day start along with Kenon Broxton and Orlando Arcia. With a lack of experience, pitching is gonna be extra important in an area the Brewers have struggled for years. Counsel is going to have his hands full but will be able to move around players in a very versatile lineup.