The Rockies, on tired legs, beat the Dodgers in the first game of their series at Coors Field with shortstop Troy Tulowitzki beating James McDonald's fastball with a hit to center to plate the winning run. Colorado has now sliced what was once a 15 1/2 game Dodger lead in the NL West to 2 games.

Rockies Prospect Eric Young Jr. made his debut, picked up his first major league hit and got thrown out trying to show off his speed in a stolen base attempt. He'll learn it takes more than speed to be successful swiping bags.

Young is an infielder but was being groomed lately in Colorado Springs to play center field. With rookie Dexter Fowler out with a deep knee bruise, Young is getting his chance in Denver. The key for him will be on-base percentage. Can he draw a walk, can he bunt effectively, can he be selective at the plate and can he hit at least .270-plus (Fowler range) and be a menace on the base paths? If so, and if he can hold his own in the field, the Rockies will be happy.