The Rockies began a 10-game homestand with a four-game series against the Nationals. 

Jake Peavy vented his frustration following his last start after the San Diego Padres once again failed to provide him with much run support. 

Lastings Milledge and the Washington Nationals started playing their best baseball at the wrong time for Colorado. 

MEDICAL WATCH: LHP Jeff Francis (left shoulder inflammation) went on the 15-day disabled list July 2. 

First, the Rockies finalized the acquisition of starting pitcher Livan Hernandez on waivers Wednesday morning. 

--1B Todd Helton received a third epidural to try to ease the inflammation in his lower back, and the feeling is that this time they found the spot. 

The Colorado Rockies got a pair of pitching reinforcements Wednesday, claiming Livan Hernandez off waivers from the Minnesota Twins and activating Jeff Francis from the disabled list. 

Not so long ago, Rockies manager Clint Hurdle wondered how much longer he could keep sending Ubaldo Jimenez out to the mound. 

Jeff Francis was the ace of the Colorado Rockies pitching staff during the club's remarkable playoff run last season, but hasn't found that form yet in 2008. 

The trade deadline has passed, but teams can still go the waiver route. 

The trade deadline has passed, but teams can still go the waiver route. 

Livan Hernandez was claimed off waivers by the Colorado Rockies from the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday. 

Livan Hernandez was claimed off waivers by the Colorado Rockies from the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday. 

Livan Hernandez was claimed off waivers by the Colorado Rockies from the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday. 

Livan Hernandez was claimed off waivers by the Colorado Rockies from the Minnesota Twins on Wednesday.