Garneau returns with calmer hitting approach

SAN FRANCISCO — Lifted by the confidence gained through a successful offensive stint in the Majors earlier this season, catcher Dustin Garneau rejoined the Rockies on Friday.

Garneau, recalled from Triple-A Albuquerque because Nick Hundley went to the 15-day disabled list with a left oblique strain, went 4-for-10 for the Rockies when Hundley was out with a concussion last month. It was an improvement over the .157 he hit during a 22-game stint at the end of last season.

“I kept myself more under control and stuck to my plan, and being my second time around up here made it a lot easier to stay calm,” Garneau said.

In the Minors, Garneau began simplifying his hitting plan, since he knew it was possible his opportunity would come as an emergency replacement or as a part-time player. Garneau said he has learned from brief chances to play alongside outfielder Ryan Raburn — who has built his career with an economical offensive approach.

“He has nine years in the big leagues, so there’s a lot of stuff I can ask him about, if I don’t understand or don’t know,” Garneau said.

Rockies manager Walt Weiss said he will balance the playing time between left-handed-hitting Tony Wolters and the right-handed-hitting Garneau.

Rock-and-roll batting practice

Right-handed pitcher Jason Motte (right shoulder strain) threw a two-inning live batting-practice session Friday and …

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