Minor-league spotlight
Cole Garner, OF, Sky Sox
Garner wasn’t in the room when Sky Sox manager Stu Cole explained where Triple-A fit into the development process in the Rockies’ farm system.
But Garner must have heard when Cole explained that when players are in Triple-A, they have to show they have the ability to play in the big leagues.
Garner put on a show over a seven- game span into last week. He collected 11 hits, three doubles, two triples, two home runs and five RBIs. The surge helped raise his batting average to .293, with seven home runs and 37 RBIs. He also was selected the Pacific Coast League’s offensive player of the week.
Garner is in his sixth year in the Rockies’ organization and first at the Triple-A level.
“I had a good spring training, and I think I opened some eyes,” Garner said. “I was able to talk with the big-league coaches, and I think as long as I play my game, I’m on the radar.”
Garner has some playing qualities that add to his value. While he has played mostly at the corner outfield spots, he has played some center field.
“I think it’s an asset to be as versatile as you can,” Garner said.
A right-handed hitter, Garner had 118 doubles in his first five seasons in the organization.
Irv Moss, The Denver Post
