There’s been plenty of discussion about the Rockies’ lack of starting pitcher depth. But early in camp, right-hander Peter Lambert is providing some reasons for hope.

Lambert notched the win in the Rockies’ 7-3 over the A’s Monday at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, Arizona. Lambert, who’s faced a long, steep road back from an elbow injury, pitched two scoreless innings, walking one and striking out one.

“It was great to be out there,” he told reporters. “The first inning I was a little bit out of whack, throwing a few more balls than I wanted to, but I made some pitches that I needed to.”

Lambert said his best off-speed pitch was his changeup.

Manager Bud Black was thrilled to have Lambert back on the mound.

“That was great and with a good look on his face, with confidence, that’s he’s healthy,” Black told reporters. “It was good to see a smile on his face … He’s in a good spot.”

Asked what his aspirations are for this season, Lambert said: “I hope to be in Denver but I have to take care of a few things. I have to pitch well in camp and I have to be healthy.”