28-year old lefty starting pitcher Jeff Francis made his season debut for the Rockies yesterday and he was razor sharp. He worked 7 innings against the Nationals allowing only 1 earned run on 7 hits and 2 walks while whiffing 6 batters. He didn’t get the decision but the Rockies have to be extremely excited with how he pitched. He was also sharp in two rehab starts in AA-ball in which he was 0-0 with a 1.54 ERA and a 1.11 WHIP. Francis’ return really will bolster the Rockies’ starting rotation as long as he stays healthy.