Bracing for the potential loss of starter Yorvit Torrealba, the Rockies have expressed preliminary interest in free agent catcher Brian Schneider.
Schneider suffered through a disappointing 2009 with the Mets, hitting .218 with three home runs and 24 RBIs in 59 games. The veteran profiles as a backup at this point his career, and is a left-handed hitter who could complement Chris Iannetta.
Torrealba, who turned down a two-year, $4.5-million deal from the Rockies, is expected to receive an offer soon from the clubs that have called about him, including one from the NL West.
Colorado brought back catcher Paul Phillips earlier this week. The Rockies are also looking for right-handed batter off the bench who can play the first and third. Two names to keep an eye on are Bobby Crosby and Fernando Tatis.
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com.
