Three observations …

• Colorado is built to last in the National League West. The Rockies always have had good position players, but the pitching is benefitting from the influence of manager Bud Black.

• If players such as Jose Bautista want to flip their bats after big hits, then pitchers should be able to celebrate big strikeouts.

• Seattle's Jean Segura has turned his career around. After two down years in Milwaukee, Segura hit .319 for Arizona last season and has taken things to another level with Seattle this season, batting .359 as of Friday.

… and two predictions

• The Cleveland starting rotation is struggling now, but it will begin to meet expectations in June, then carry the team the rest of the season.

• The Twins will go 1-2 in their three games at Baltimore this week.