CATCHING ON

The Rockies invested in some catching insurance during spring training.

When they decided Geronimo Gil wasn't going to make the major league team and was not going to be the No. 1 catcher for Triple-A Colorado Springs, the Rockies sent him to the Mexico City Red Devils but paid his salary so they could retain his rights.

It paid off Thursday. Gil joined the Rockies as the backup to Yorvit Torrealba.

MANPOWER

The key to the decision to bring up infielder Clint Barmes to fill the roster spot opened by right-hander Jason Hirsh being placed on the disabled list is the fact Barmes can play second base, third base, shortstop and all three outfield positions.

He also is a right-handed hitter and the Cubs have three left-handed pitchers scheduled to start in the four-game series.

Versatility is an issue because the Rockies bench is short with center fielder Willy Taveras slowed by a right quadriceps strain and first baseman Todd Helton by back spasms.

DOUBLE DIP

The Rockies' July 27 rainout against the Dodgers was rescheduled as the afternoon portion of a Sept. 18 day-night doubleheader at Coors Field.

The makeup game will start at 1:05 p.m., with the regularly scheduled game set to start at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets and parking passes from the July 27 game will be valid for the afternoon game. Fans can exchange those tickets for any game before the makeup game. To attend the evening game, a Game 76 ticket is needed.