Grand Slam Lifts Rangers Over Rockies in Surprise

Chad Tracy's first major league spring training appearance was memorable.
 
The son of former Dodgers and Pirates manager Jim Tracy hit a tiebreaking grand slam in the seventh inning Saturday, leading the Texas Rangers over the Colorado Rockies 8-4.
 
"This is the first time I've played but I've been a reserve eight or nine times," said Tracy, among the Rangers' top prospects. "I've gotten used to hanging around the guys."
 
Adding to the moment for the 22-year-old was having his father, currently the Rockies' bench coach, looking on from next to the opposing dugout.
 
"Dad was very proud," Rangers manager Ron Washington said. "He tried not to show it, but you could see it."
 
Rangers starter Kevin Millwood allowed three runs and five hits in six innings, striking out five and walking one.
 
"It was awesome," Washington said. "He went in there and battled. What we're trying to do is get his stamina up."
 
Millwood, the Rangers' projected opening-day starter, was pitching in 90-degree temperatures.
 
"It was nice to get out there in the hot weather and go about my business and not feel the effects of it," Millwood said. "I feel like I'm in good shape, and my endurance is pretty high for this stage of spring training."
 
Texas' Andruw Jones made his first appearance in an "A" game since March 13 and went 1-for-2 with a double after pinch hitting in the seventh. On Friday, Jones and the Rangers extended by three days until Monday a provision in his minor league contract that would allow the five-time All-Star to become a free agent if he's not put on the big league roster.
 
Jared Saltalamacchia went 2-for-2 with a pair of doubles and left-hander C.J. Wilson returned from a blister on his throwing hand to pitch a scoreless inning for the Rangers, who have won six straight.
 
Paul Phillips, Matt Murton and Joe Koshansky hit solo homers for the Rockies, who have lost their last three.
 
Colorado starter Jorge de la Rosa gave up three runs and six hits in four innings, striking out five and walking none in his fifth start
 
"Everything was working today," said de la Rosa, vying for a rotation spot. "I like that I didn't walk everybody. I'm feeling better, feeling stronger and getting better command. My mechanics are much better."