SAN DIEGO — What was admirable in April has become a concern in July.
Remember all those innings gobbled by the bullpen the first month? They are taking their toll.
Franklin Morales, who opened the season as the closer, has hit the skids and was optioned to Triple-A Colorado Springs after Wednesday’s game in favor of right-hander Esmil Rogers. Morales was torched in June, giving up more than a run per inning.
“I don’t know what it is, if it is (my delivery). I have to make better pitches,” Morales said.
His performance continued an alarming trend by the bullpen, which has gotten worse each month. A look at the bullpen’s ERA by month: April 2.39, May 3.86 and June 5.55.
“It’s a long season. You have to stay mentally strong,” setup man Rafael Betancourt said. “It’s more important that you are there mentally than physically.”
Even with Rogers’ arrival, the door could soon start revolving again. Taylor Buchholz (back) will soon be re-evaluated after throwing back-to-back games on his second rehabilitation assignment. And Matt Daley, out with shoulder inflammation, will throw a bullpen session today at Coors Field.
Take cover.
For the better part of 60 years, landing on the cover of Sports Illustrated was considered a crowning achievement. Now, the feat comes with a tinge of concern. The celebrated SI jinx was a topic of conversation with Ubaldo Jimenez featured on this week’s cover under the headline “Pitchers Rule” along with Philadelphia’s Roy Halladay and Florida’s Josh Johnson.
“The times I was on the cover, I had my best seasons,” reasoned Rockies slugger Jason Giambi, referring to his days with the A’s and Yankees. “I think the cover jinx is only in the NFL now with the Madden video game.”
The Rockies have debunked the trend before. Jeff Francis appeared on the cover during the team’s magical 2007 playoff run, and Colorado still advanced to the World Series.
“It’s an honor,” Jimenez said.
Footnotes.
Clint Barmes extended his hit streak to eight games, during which time he is 13-for-31. . . . Former Fountain- Fort Carson prep star Chase Headley set a career high with his 11th stolen base.
Troy E. Renck, The Denver Post
