Although the Colorado Rockies won just 74 games in 2013, it marked a 10-win improvement over 2012. In order to continue the positive trend in 2014, the Rockies will need to stay relatively injury-free. That hasn’t quite worked out so far this Spring Training as second basemen Josh Rutledge, first baseman Justin Morneau and pitcher Jhoulys Chacin are all dealing with injury issues in camp.
As reported by Thomas Harding of MLB.com, Rutledge has been slowed down by a left ankle sprain, which he suffered in the second day of full-squad workouts and tweaked it while playing Saturday against the Reds. Rutledge lost his starting job last season and needs at-bats in attempts to win the job back from DJ LeMahieu, who took over after Rutledge faltered.
«Better now than in the season, missing a whole bunch of time,» Rutledge said. «The thing now is to not try to come back too quick on it, and there will still be plenty of time.»
Rutledge came on the scene in 2012 replacing injured Troy Tulowizki and batter .274 in 73 games, but hit only .235 in 88 games last season. Because he can play shortstop and second base, he could be used as a utility infielder if he doesn’t start.
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| Keith Allison via Wikimedia Commons |
In other injury news, Justin Morneau has been kept out of action since Friday with a stiff neck and will not play in either of the Rockies’ games today. Manager Walt Weiss said he is not concerned long term about his veteran first baseman. In his first season with the Rockies, Morneau has played in 1,303 Major League games and has a .277 career average with 221 home runs and 863 RBI.
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| Keith Allison via Wikimedia Commons |
Jhoulys Chacin has been bothered with a shoulder strain and inflammation and could miss some starts to open the season. Weiss is pleased with Chacin’s progression and there is hope that he can soon throw some bullpen sessions. Chacin was a 14-game winner last season and had an ERA of 3.47. In five Major League seasons, Chacin has a record of 37-41 with a 3.61 ERA. In 608 2/3 innings, he’s allowed 556 hits and 252 walks, while striking out 472.
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