Fowler returns atop Rockies' lineup

DENVER -- After missing two starts with a right hand injury, center fielder Dexter Fowler returned to his usual leadoff spot Sunday.

Fowler was one of three Rockies starters who were injured in the series-opening loss to Philadelphia on Friday, along with Carlos Gonzalez and Troy Tulowitzki. Fowler was injured when a pitch struck his hand as he attempted to bunt, which kept him from being able to grip a bat.

"The key was he felt good enough to take swings," manager Walt Weiss said.

In addition to his valuable defense, Fowler has been swinging the bat better in June than at any point this season. He is hitting .381 with two homers and seven RBIs through 12 games this month.