What the Rockies’ bullpen’s 0.77 ERA in the National League Division Series suggested was confirmed to Jorge Julio on Tuesday. He said he was informed he would not be added to the Rockies’ National League Championship roster, which must be finalized on Thursday morning.
“It’s tough, but I understand,” Julio told The Denver Post.
As manager Clint Hurdle pointed out last week, Julio was a staple in the bullpen for two months. But the right-hander picked a bad time to battle a neck injury and a mini-slump. Julio said his neck feels better, responding fine during bullpen sessions. However, no one in the bullpen is struggling. Ryan Speier, the man who essentially replaced Julio, hasn’t allowed an earned run in 5 2/3 innings, while striking out eight.
Julio is expected to stay with the team and be available if the Rockies advance to the World Series. The Rockies’ biggest decision lies in the rotation on whether to add opening day starter Aaron Cook. The right-hander, who hasn’t pitched in a game since Aug. 10, will throw 90 pitches Wednesday in Tucson with general manager Dan O’Dowd in attendance.
If Cook performs well and has no problems with his left oblique muscle he could replace Josh Fogg as the Game 4 starter. Fogg could then stay in the bullpen with Mark Redman’s spot in jeopardy.
“I wish I had a crystal ball,” said pitching coach Bob Apodaca when asked how he thought Cook would do after a two-month layoff. “It’s a tough decision. But at this point all options are viable.”
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com
