Rockies' schedule providing some down time

KANSAS CITY -- After the heavy workload they experienced through the opening six weeks of the season, the Rockies must feel like they are getting a mini-vacation this week.

Colorado had played 40 games in 42 days prior to an off-day on Monday. They'll get another off-day on Thursday before opening a weekend home series against San Diego on Friday. The Rockies will enjoy their third off-day in a week's span next Monday.

"It has been an interesting schedule," manager Walt Weiss said. "I don't think I've ever been with a club that started the season with a schedule like this."

Having three off-days in a one-week span will enable the Rockies to get a break mentally as well as physically.

"I don't think [the players] are going to complain," Weiss said. "You aren't used to having to grind in April and May. Hopefully, it makes us stronger in the end."