Looking to add bench depth as they await shortstop Troy Tulowitzki’s return to the lineup, the Rockies have called up infielder Doug Bernier from Triple-A Colorado Springs.
Bernier replaces catcher Edwin Bellorin on the roster. Bellorin joined the big-league club for two days while Yorvit Torrealba served a two-game suspension for fighting.
Bernier is considered a hardnosed player with strong fundamentals. He hit .225 with five home runs and 18 RBIs in 54 games with the Sky Sox.
“When they told me I was going up, I had to pinch myself. I couldn’t really believe it was happening,” Bernier said today of his first call-up. “I wanted to get on the plane right away, before they changed their mind.”
Bernier boarded a plane in Tucson this morning and flew to Denver. He’ll join the Rockies for tonight’s game against the Cleveland Indians at Coors Field.
His stay is expected to be short as Tulowitzki is expected to rejoin the club soon, possibly as early as Friday.
“I don’t care if it’s just one day, it’s an absolute dream come true,” Bernier said.
Another potential roster decision is looming in the bullpen as left-handed reliever Micah Bowie returns from his rehab assignment and is reevaluated by the Rockies.
