Rockies option three more to minor-league camp
The Colorado Rockies have optioned right-handed pitcher Clayton Mortensen, catcher Mike McKenry and infielder Chris Nelson to their minor-league camp. All three players were competing for open spots on the roster but have seen less playing time than other candidates.
Mortensen, who was acquired from the Oakland Athletics before the start of spring training, has a 1.50 ERA in three spring appearances. He pitched six inning and allowed five hits, walked three and struck out three. Mortensen was in the mix for the fifth starter role, but the Rockies have been working with his mechanics and he hasn’t been stretched out as far as some of the other candidates.
McKenry is hitting .200 with a home run and an RBI in nine spring games. Jose Morales remains the favorite for the backup catcher job with the possibility that the Rockies will carry a third catcher, Jordan Pacheco, primarily for his bat and play him at other positions. Matt Pagnozzi also remains in the mix for the backup catcher job.
Nelson entered Tuesday’s game against the Chicago Cubs hitting .150 in 12 games. He has played second base, third base and shortstop and has made strides defensively. But Jonathan Herrera and Jose Lopez likely have the starting second base and utility infield jobs locked up between them with Eric Young Jr. still fighting for a spot on the roster.
The moves leave the Rockies with 42 players remaining in their major-league camp including 13 non-roster players.
I guess I’m kind of surprised to see Nelson sent down this early.