NUMBERS GAME

0 runners thrown out by catcher Javy Lopez, who has allowed eight runners, including three Monday, to steal while he has been in three games. Lopez got hit his fourth double of spring training Monday.

GAME DAY

First baseman Todd Helton went 2-for-3 in the Rockies' 8-2 loss against the Rangers at Hi Corbett Field. Helton missed the two previous games with right knee inflammation. "He's special and is in a very good place right now," manager Clint Hurdle said. . . . Third baseman Garrett Atkins and left fielder Matt Holliday, who started each of the first four exhibition games, were off. Ian Stewart started at third base and Cory Sullivan in left field. . . . Left-handed pitcher Oscar Rivera struck out five in three innings, but for the second time in two appearances, he gave up a two-run home run.

LEFT-HANDERS STRUGGLE

Left-hander Jeremy Affeldt gave up three runs before retiring a batter in his one inning. Affeldt has given up four runs, six hits and three walks in two innings.

Tom Martin, the only left-hander expected to set up closer Brian Fuentes, allowed three runs in one inning on Saturday. He pitches again today.

"The left-handers have some things to work on," Hurdle said.

"But we've got 26 days to go. One good outing and back it up with another and nobody will think a thing."

Hurdle said he was encouraged Affeldt struck out two and got a groundball from the third after giving up the runs, "but the next outing tells more."