Rosario, T. Wheeler home runs among 15 hits
Pitchers struggle to hold off A's; Rox offense slowed after early eruption
PHOENIX -- Coco Crisp had two hits and a stolen base, Jed Lowrie had a bases-clearing double as part of a four-run fourth inning, and the A's beat the Rockies, 10-5, Thursday night at Phoenix Municipal Stadium.
The A's scored three runs (two earned) off Rockies starter Tyler Chatwood in three innings, four runs in Matt Belisle's one inning and three runs in Jon Gray's 2 2/3 innings.
The Rockies pounded out 15 hits but didn't score after the fourth inning.
A's starter A.J. Griffin gave up five runs on nine hits in 3 2/3 innings.
"I still have to get down on the zone better, but I feel like things are shaping up better and better," said Griffin, who has a 10.38 ERA this spring.
Brandon Barnes was 3-for-3 and reached base four times for the Rockies. Catcher Wilin Rosario and right fielder Tim Wheeler each homered.
A's manager Bob Melvin won his first challenge under the expanded replay rules. In the second inning, a double play at first base against Crisp was overturned. Melvin also challenged a play at first in the eighth inning that was upheld.
Up next: Rockies lefty Christian Friedrich, who was optioned to the Minors on Thursday, will start Friday against the Giants at Scottsdale Stadium at 2:05 MT. Third baseman Nolan Arenado, left fielder Carlos Gonzalez and center fielder Drew Stubbs are among the regulars slated to play. Righty prospect Eddie Butler is scheduled to pitch in relief. The Rockies also will meet the Mariners at 8:05 MT, with lefty Franklin Morales -- competiting for a rotation spot -- starting in a game that can be heard on Gameday Audio.