What’s up: Though blessed with exceptional ability, De La Rosa, 27, has been maddeningly inconsistent throughout his big-league career. Bouts of wildness, along with a lack of focus and maturity, derailed him. But he took a giant leap forward last season with the Rockies, pitching a career-high 130 innings. Before the all- star break, he was 3-5 with a 7.26 ERA. After: 7-3, 3.08.
What’s next: With lefty Jeff Francis likely out for the season, De La Rosa’s role is magnified. He’s penciled in as the top left-handed starter in the No. 4 slot. He passed on a chance to pitch for Mexico in the WBC because he wants to show the Rockies he can fulfill expectations. Fastball command early in the count and an ability to handle his emotions when things go bad are critical. Patrick Saunders, Denver Post
