Betancourt’s session brings sunshine

The Rockies’ clubhouse needed a smile on Wednesday, and right-hander Rafael Betancourt provided it.

It wasn’t as if folks were giving up because Huston Street’s shoulder problems now require an MRI and most likely will force him to the disabled list to start the season. But it’s always good to have good news. That was what Betancourt’s throwing session turned out to be.

Betancourt threw a 25-pitch “live” batting practice session against Eric Young Jr., and a couple other hitters.

“I like the way the ball was coming out of my hand, and that’s what I was looking for,” Betancourt said.

Manager Jim Tracy said Betancourt, who avoided arbitration with a two-year, $7.55 million contract during the winter, will not be a candidate to fill in for Street as closer.

“This man has been signed up here to be a setup man, and he is unbelievable at that,” Tracy said.

Betancourt said, “I just let Jim Tracy make a decision. I want to be in a spot to help the team win. I don’t care where it is.”

Betancourt hopes to throw a simulated game on Friday and make his Cactus League debut next week.