Diamondbacks-Rockies: Arizona Squeaks Out a Win Over Colorado on Opening Day

You knew it was going to be a long day when Arizona Diamondbacks starter Brandon Webb threw 22 pitches in the first inning.

He didn’t give up any runs up in the first, but you knew he was in for a long afternoon (or short depending on your view).

Webb lasted just four innings, but backed by a potent offense and great back-end bullpen work, the D'backs defeated the Colorado Rockies on Monday, 9-8 in the first regular-season game of the 2009 campaign.

Chad Tracy hit a home run off of losing pitcher Jason Grilli (0-1) to lead off the 7th inning to give Arizona the lead and eventual win.

Relievers Tony Pena (W, 1-0) and Chad Qualls (S,1), got 1-2-3 innings in the 8th and 9th respectively and the D'backs' victory was secured.

Players of the game

Tony Clark and Felipe Lopez. As well as Tracy played, going 3-for-4 with a home run, Clark and Lopez each hit two home runs, with both players hitting one out from each side of the plate.

It is the first time that two teammates hit a home run from each side of the plate in the same game since 2000 when the New York Yankees’ Jorge Posada and Bernie Williams did it, and occurred for the first time ever on Opening Day.

You should have been worried when...

Webb gave up a bases-clearing double to Brad Hawpe. The double gave the Rockies a 4-2 lead. Webb eventually gave up six runs in four innings.

It was over when...

The last out was made with Todd Helton grounding out. Take nothing for granted with this team. They will keep you on the edge of your seat most of the season.

Next up: D'backs face Colorado tomorrow night at 6:40.

*AZScot is a Sports Jabber contributing author. You can view more of his work at Venom Strikes.

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