The Colorado Rockies Opening Day roster is finally taking shape, as four more pitchers were optioned down to minor league camp.
RHP Greg Reynolds, the second overall selection in the 2006 Draft, had a strong spring and remained a candidate for the fifth rotation spot or a longman role in the bullpen. He has been optioned down from the major league club and will likely start the season in the AAA Colorado Springs rotation, and will represent solid depth at starter in case of injury.
LHP Rex Brothers, a sandwich selection in 2009, had an eye-opening spring as well. Brothers pitched eight innings this spring, allowing only two runs and striking out 11 batters. He remains the first option for a lefty in the bullpen in case incumbents Franklin Morales or Matt Reynolds struggle at the major league level.
LHP Eric Stults also had a solid camp, and is in a very similar position as Brothers. Though not blessed with Brothers’ electric fastball, he pitched his way into the AAA rotation this season and could receive a callup in case of injury as well.
RHP Matt Daley was also optioned down. There were rumors that the Rockies would only go with an eight man bullpen to start the season, and Daley was one of the two candidates (along with Reynolds). It appears that Esmil Rogers will play the role of longman for the first week — a fifth starter isn’t needed until April 9 — and has thus squeezed Daley out of a spot on the Opening Day roster. He will pitch in AAA, and will be available in case of injury. Daley had a surprising 2009 debut, and has shown great success at the major league level.