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Rockies target sweep of Phils

Apr 20, 2014 - 11:07 AM (SportsNetwork.com) - Juan Nicasio makes his fourth start of the season on Sunday and will try to help the Colorado Rockies to a three-game series sweep over the Philadelphia Phillies at Coors Field.

Nicasio picked up his second win in three starts on Tuesday against San Diego when he threw 99 pitches in six innings while allowing two runs in a 3-2 triumph.

"The fact that he got through six was huge," Rockies manager Walt Weiss said. "We needed Juan to get through that sixth; that was critical. I was a little concerned at that point, but he settled in."

Nicasio's faced Philadelphia twice in his career -- both in 2013 -- and posted a 4.76 earned run average against the Phillies while not earning a decision. He pitched 5 2/3 innings in both games.

For the Phillies, Roberto Hernandez aims for a second victory.

The right-hander allowed two runs on four hits in six innings against Atlanta on Monday, but took the loss after walking six batters and throwing 118 pitches.

His lone career matchup against the Rockies came in 2011 when he pitched for the Cleveland Indians. In that game, he was roughed up for seven runs in 4 2/3 innings.

On Saturday, Jordan Lyles worked seven-plus innings to lead the Rockies to a 3-1 win.

Lyles (3-0) gave up one unearned run on five hits with a walk and two strikeouts, while Justin Morneau hit a two-run homer for the Rockies, who have won four of their last five.

"He's really given us a lift in that rotation," Weiss said of Lyles.

Kyle Kendrick (0-2) gave up three runs on six hits with three strikeouts over seven innings for the Phillies, who have dropped four of their last five. Jimmy Rollins drove in their only run.

"Made a mistake to Morneau," Kendrick said. "That first run. It was a replay. I guess that's why we have it, but it's frustrating when it doesn't go (your way).

The Rockies lost four of seven meetings with the Phillies last season.