Looking to fortify their bullpen and catching situation, the Rockies moved close today to re-signing veteran Matt Herges and have made progress in talks with Yorvit Torrealba.
Herges was a critical component in the relief corps last season, working as a set-up man in the final month as the team earned a playoff berth. Herges went 5-1 with a 2.96 earned run average in 35 games last season.
“We are close, that is fair to say,” said agent Danny Horwits, who represents Herges. “But we aren’t done yet. There are still other teams involved.”
For the first time since Torrealba’s deal with the New York Mets collapsed on Saturday, the Rockies moved toward bringing back the veteran catcher.
After talks stalled for a few days, there has been significant strides as the two sides move closer to a deal. The Rockies’ best offer for Torrealba was two years for $7 million with a vesting option for a third year. It remains unclear if they will stick by that deal or modify it a bit.
Torrealba reached career-highs in home runs, RBIs and games played last season, and more importantly, earned raved reviews for his ability to call games.
Bringing back Herges and Torrealba would be a boost for a team that is prepared to lose second baseman Kazuo Matsui. The Cubs and Astros have both pursued Matsui aggressively and have offered more money than the Rockies. He could sign with either team as early as next week.
McClellan re-signs
The Rockies added bullpen depth that could figure later into the season, signing Zach McClellan to a minor-league contract today.
McClellan provided a brief burst of effectiveness last year before blowing out his shoulder. He will make $450,000 if on the major league roster, and $11,000 a month in the minor leagues. McClellan went 1-0 with a 5.79 ERA in 12 games.
Footnotes
Former Rockie JD Closser has signed a minor-league contract with the Cubs with an invite to spring training. Catcher Raul Chavez joined the Pirates on a minor-league deal, the Astros added Tomas Perez and the Reds signed pitcher Jon Adkins to a minor-league deal.
