LOS ANGELES — Rockies pitching coach Bob Apodaca vehemently denied a report Wednesday that a disconnect has developed in his relationship with ace pitcher Ubaldo Jimenez.
“That’s the furthest thing from the truth. I have a more open relationship with Ubaldo than any pitcher I’ve ever coached. There’s not a shred of truth to that,” Apodaca said.
The New York Post wrote Wednesday that there is a “disconnect” between the two, citing it as evidence as to why the Rockies want to trade Jimenez. Apodaca discussed the issue with Jimenez before Wednesday night’s game at Dodger Stadium.
“I asked him: ‘If there’s something you want to tell me, you would, right? And you know I will definitely tell you what I am thinking, right?’ ” Apodoca said. “We’ve had give and take over the years. It’s just not fair for someone to say this.”
Jimenez, a 19-game winner last year, has credited Apodaca for assisting his development. There has been no noticeable changes in his demeanor this season toward the only big-league pitching coach he has had.
Jimenez remains a trade target of the Reds, Yankees, Red Sox and Tigers. The Rockies maintain that they have to be overwhelmed to deal their ace. He has handled an awkward situation with maturity, saying he understands the business side of baseball.
“All I can continue to do is work hard. I can’t control what people are going to do or say,” Jimenez said.
Troy E. Renck, The Denver Post
