Baker on the move, out of the lineup

Rockies infielder Jeff Baker, who has played just two games this spring because of an elbow strain, originally was supposed to start at third base Tuesday against the Royals. The first lineup card had him at second base. But before gametime, Baker was out of the lineup, but he could see some time at first base.

There was no new injury. It’s just that Baker has not had enough time taking groundballs and making throws as a third baseman or second baseman to be put into a game at those two spots.

“Today, I took some grounders at second, which was a good first step,” Baker said. “I just want to brach out. Hopefully, I’ll keep doing good and keep progressing.”

Third baseman Garrett Atkins did special exercises and stretches for his strained right groin. Head trainer Keith Dugger said Atkins will take the day off with the rest of the club Wednesday, then do more exercises and hitting Thursday before the club decides the next move.

The lineup:

Ryan Spilborghs              CF

Seth Smith                     LF

Todd Helton                    1B

Brad Hawpe                    RF

Troy Tulowitzki                SS

Clint Barmes                  2B

Christian Colonel            3B

Yorvit Torrealba                C

Ubaldo Jimenez               P