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Rockies Hitting Coordinator Voices Concerns

by Claire Brandon

Story Created: Jun 16, 2012 at 11:52 PM MDT

Story Updated: Jun 17, 2012 at 12:24 AM MDT

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo.--Rockies hitting coordinator Jimmy Johnson, who has been at the Grand Junction Rockies' mini-camp this week, said he's concerned about the impact Suplizio Field will have on the rookie ball club.

"The thing that jumps out is the way the ball carries," Johnson said. "Obviously, there's going to be a lot of home runs hit here. That can present a little problem to hitting coaches because now everybody is going to be trying to lift the ball, and that changes their swing a little bit.

"Everyone wants to hit the ball out of the ballpark, let's face it," he said. "What do they say, 'The chicks dig the long ball?' Well, that kind of fits. It's a good feeling if you've ever hit one and rounded the bases. We've got to teach guys how to play the game right, so it presents a problem, no doubt."

The roving instructor said the Grand Junction Rockies could see the same problems as their big league club. The Colorado Rockies play at home in hitter-friendly Coors Field, yet have experienced more struggles on the road.

"I think the Grand Junction Rockies are going to be similar to the Colorado Rockies," Johnson said. "On the road, we're going to have to play small ball, you might say. We're going to have to get runners on, get them over, and get them in, and not play for the three-run homer."

The Grand Junction Rockies will open the season Monday, June 18 in Ogden against the Raptors.

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