Weiss, Tulo building solid relationship

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Rockies manager Walt Weiss said he and shortstop Troy Tulowitzki have quickly developed a positive rapport.

Tulowitzki was close with former manager Jim Tracy, but the Rockies hoped he and Weiss -- who played shortstop for the Rockies 1994-97 and understands the toll the position can take while playing at altitude -- would mesh seamlessly. Having honest dialogue about fatigue and injuries will be important, with Tulowitzki coming off a left groin surgery during a 2012 season that saw him play just 47 games.

"We need him on the field if we're going to do anything seriously, and I think he understands the big picture aspect of it -- to stay out there, he may have to take a break every now and then," Weiss said. "We'll figure that stuff out. We'll find a rhythm for that."

Tulowitzki is expected to play in Saturday's Spring Training opener against the D-backs. Weiss and Tulowitzki said they expect the field to be dry, after rain and snowy slush this week, and there should not be a risk. If the field is soggy, the decision could change.

Weiss, like Tracy before him, loves Tulowitzki's presence.

"Like a lot of stars do, he's got tremendous impact on the field and in the clubhouse," Weiss said. "He plays the game really hard and deserves a lot of respect for the way he does play the game."