Betfair.net

The Colorado Rockies continue their western road trip as they start up a three game set against the Oakland Athletics Friday. Both teams had an off day Thursday prior to beginning this series.

This series has extra significance for Matt Holiday. Holiday was acquired by Oakland in a trade between the two teams during the off season. The A's sent outfielder Carlos Gonzalez along with two pitchers, Greg Smith and Huston Street, to get the slugger. With Colorado this season Street has taken on the role of closer, a job he once held with Oakland. In 33 appearances with the Rockies he has amassed 16 saves.

The main reason for the Athletics to make a deal like this in the off season was to try to improve their offence. Last season Oakland finished with 646 runs scored, the lowest total in the American League. So far Holiday isn't making the impact that was hoped. Oakland's team batting average so far this season is .236; six points lower than last season. In his past 17 games Holiday is hitting under .200; with just 2 RBI's over that stretch. Holiday is finding out that Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum is not like hitting at Coors Field where the ball is known for carrying.

Looking ahead to tonight's matchup, Colorado will send Jason Hammel to the hill. Hammel pitches much better away from hitter-friendly Coors Field as his ERA is just 2.06 on the road, compared to 7.12 at home. Oakland counters with Brett Anderson. This season Anderson is 3-7 with a 5.74 ERA.

The Rockies have been playing great baseball this month. From June 4-22 they reeled off 17 wins in 18 games.

I think with Oakland's futile offence and the pitching matchup all signs are pointing to taking Colorado to win this one.