Consider the Rockies’ center field situation the fast and the curious.
Speedy Scott Podsednik returned on a minor-league deal Wednesday, and will compete for the starting job with favorite Ryan Spilborghs who brings potential power from the leadoff spot.
Podsednik stole 12 bases in 93 games last season as a reserve. Only Clint Barmes swiped more (13), among returning players.
“Scott is going to get every opportunity to earn playing time in center,” Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd said. “He provides competition and depth and with the speed we have lost the last two years with Kaz (Matsui) and Willy (Taveras), he provides that element.”
O’Dowd also didn’t rule out Dexter Fowler breaking camp with the team, but pointed out that he hasn’t played an inning in Triple-A.
The Rockies also signed former Reds pitcher Matt Belisle on a minor-league deal, adding to the inventory of arms in the mix for rotation spots. Belisle’s arrival could prevent a reunion with Josh Fogg. Colorado wants him back, and Fogg’s first choice is Colorado, but he might not be able to pass up a better opportunity elsewhere.
“I sure hope it works out. We will see,” Fogg said.
No on “O”
The Rockies internally discussed making a run at free agent second baseman Orlando Hudson as recently as Tuesday, but nixed the idea. Hudson could settle for a one-year deal for around $8 million, a figure that would still be prohibitive on the Rockies’ payroll.
“We are committed to giving (Clint) Barmes and (Jeff) Baker a legitimate opportunity,” O’Dowd said.
Footnotes
Reliever Jason Grilli will pitch for Italy in the World Baseball Classic. He joked about giving Team USA catcher Chris Iannetta some chin music. “I don’t know what happened. I thought he was going to play for (Italy),” Grilli said.
… Other players invited to camp on minor-league deals include former Giants farmhand Dan Ortmeier, catcher Edwin Bellorin and pitcher Cedrick Bowers.
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com.
