Salazar effective for Indians in 10-5 win over Rockies

GOODYEAR, Ariz. (AP) Danny Salazar pitched four effective innings Saturday, and Jesus Aguilar and Michael Martinez each hit a two-run homer in the Cleveland Indians' 10-5 victory over a Colorado Rockies split squad.

Salazar had only pitched in simulated games since his last start on March 11. He allowed a home run to Charlie Blackmon and three hits Saturday. Salazar walked two and struck out five.

''I saw more good than bad from Salazar,'' manager Terry Francona said. ''He is still leaving a few balls up but I see his intent. He's working on driving the ball down in the (strike) zone.'

After two straight night games, Francona rested most of his starters. Ryan Rohlinger was 3 for 3 including a solo home run for Cleveland. Rohlinger and Aguilar drove in three runs each. Tyler Holt had two hits and made a running catch against the centerfield fence.

''It's good to see Aguilar have success. He's had better swings this spring,'' Francona said. ''Tyler Holt got a taste (of the big leagues) last year. He came into camp in good shape and plays all out.''

David Hale, who was acquired in a trade with Atlanta for two minor league players, gave up four runs - one earned - in 2 1-3 innings.

Bryan Shaw allowed two home runs, one to Jeremy Barfield, son of former major leaguer Jesse Barfield, and one to Will Swanner. Shaw is expected to anchor the Indians bullpen.

''Shaw is just a little up with his pitches,'' Francona said. ''As we get farther in the spring, he'll get there.''

Shaw has allowed six earned runs in 4 2-3 innings.

TRAINING ROOM

Rockies: Jorge De La Rosa has recovered from a strained left groin. He pitched 2 1-3 innings on Friday and has been selected to pitch the Rockies home opener against the Cubs on April 10.

Indians: Nick Swisher is running the bases for the second time and participating in outfield drills to test his knees. He had surgery on both over the winter. He could play in games early next week. ... Jason Kipnis is not expected to play Saturday or Sunday. He had back spasms when hitting in the batting cage. ... Kyle Crockett was removed from the game Friday with a tight hamstring. ''If it was the regular season, I wouldn't have even gone out there,'' Francona said. ''In spring training it doesn't make sense to leave him in.''

STARTING TIME

Indians: RHP Danny Salazar made his third start of the spring. He had been working in camp games since March 11.

There are two starting spots open and Salazar is trying to be aggressive to earn on of them.

''I was focusing on throwing strikes,'' Salazar said. ''In camp I have been working on it. Now I'm trying to take it into games.''

Salazar started the 2013 season in the Indians' rotation but was 1-4 with a 5.53 ERA in eight starts. He was sent to Triple-A Columbus on May 16 and returned July 22.

''I wasn't 100 percent healthy last year,'' Salazar said. ''I am a lot more confident now. I'm on the right track.''

UP NEXT

Rockies: Opening-day starter RHP Kyle Kendrick will face LHP Robbie Ray of Arizona.

Indians: AL Cy Young winner RHP Corey Kluber is set to start against the Dodgers. RHP Austin Adams, RHP Anthony Swarzak, LHP Nick Hagadone and RHP Jeff Manship are also scheduled to pitch for the Indians.