Lefty Francis feels good after bullpen session

DENVER -- Left-hander Jeff Francis (left groin strain) felt good Wednesday after a 25-pitch bullpen Tuesday. Actually, Rockies head athletic trainer Keith Dugger said he had wanted to limit Francis to a "touch-and-feel" 'pen session, but the fact that he was able to throw 25 pitches was positive.

Francis will accompany the team to San Francisco, where he will play long toss Friday and throw another bullpen Saturday. Beyond that, the plan for rehab under game conditions hasn't been set.

Twice this year -- with right-hander Jhoulys Chacin earlier and outfielder-first baseman Michael Cuddyer currently -- the team has elected to slot the players into extended spring games in Scottsdale, Ariz., as opposed to a more traditional Minor League rehab assignment. For example, Cuddyer was scheduled to play Wednesday against an Angels team with injured standout Jered Weaver pitching.

However, Francis said he prefers pitching in a Minor League game.

"Just for me to get on a mound is the next thing I'm looking forward to," Francis said. "I like the [Minor League] game better. There's a little more intensity."