Rockies’ Walker hobbled, may not play in Las Vegas

Friday, March 31, 2000 | 11:18 a.m.

Two-time defending NL batting champion Larry Walker missed his third straight game Thursday because of a strained right calf muscle and is questionable for Colorado's final two spring games this weekend in Las Vegas.

The Rockies play Philadelphia today and Oakland Saturday in 7:05 p.m. games at Cashman Field.

"It's just a little bruised up," Walker said. "I might have to go another day or two before we go at it full, but I'll be there Monday -- unless the weather's bad."

Colorado manager Buddy Bell has held Walker out of the lineup since his star right fielder strained the calf muscle while swinging during an at-bat Monday.

Walker, who has hit at least .360 in three straight seasons, tested the calf by taking infield Thursday. Bell said he apparently had a "setback."

The Rockies have two other key players slowed by injuries. Third baseman Jeff Cirillo has a strained right quadriceps, and second baseman Mike Lansing has a bruised left ankle.

In other games at Cashman, Seattle played the Chicago White Sox this afternoon, the Phillies face the White Sox Saturday at 12:05 p.m. and Oakland takes on Arizona at 1:05 p.m. Sunday. The Diamondbacks will be without former UNLV star Matt Williams. The third baseman broke a foot bone fouling off a pitch this week.