"Aaron Cook played catch. And Dexter Fowler didn't limp. As such, Monday represented a day of progress for injured Rockies. Cook threw from 60 feet, testing his strained right shoulder. He believes he will pitch again this season, though it likely won't happen for another two to three weeks.

Newly acquired Jose Contreras will replace him in the rotation for the time being, making his Rockies debut Saturday against the Diamondbacks.

Fowler is inching his way back to the active roster. He had his right knee drained of fluid. It eased the pain, allowing him to ride a stationary bike Monday.

"It's feeling better," said Fowler, who is eligible to come off the disabled list next Tuesday.

The thong song.

Jason Giambi didn't just pack his bat for his arrival in Denver. He also brought along his famous golden thong. For those not familiar with the story, Giambi has worn the thong to break out of horrific slumps dating to his first tour of duty with the Athletics. In New York, he convinced Derek Jeter, Johnny Damon and Bernie Williams to try it."