Getting your player ready...
Utility player Rafael Ynoa was optioned to the minors Monday as the Rockies continued to trim their roster. (Justin Edmonds, Getty Images)
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — The Rockies’ 25-man roster is close to completion, but with opening day just one week away, questions remain, including who’s going to be the backup catcher — Dustin Garneau or Tony Wolters?
The Rockies optioned utility infielder/outfielder Rafael Ynoa to the minors on Monday, clearing one space on the roster (the club also re-assigned right-handed reliever Brian Schlitter).
The Ynoa move leaves me with these impressions and questions:
- It seems clear that outfielder Ryan Raburn makes the team, meaning that his $1.5 million salary kicks in. His ability to hit left-handers makes him the Rockies’ fourth outfielder. That was pretty evident the day the Rockies signed him.
- I wouldn’t have said this a week ago, but Tony Wolter’s versatility gives him a real shot to make the roster as the backup catcher to Nick Hundley. Wolters can also play second base, giving the Rockies some needed depth at middle infield.
- If Wolters makes it, catcher Dustin Garneau will be sent down to Triple-A.
- Brandon Barnes is still on the bubble as the fifth outfielder. First basemen Mark Reynolds and Ben Paulsen can also play outfield, if needed, so Barnes could find himself back in Triple-A.
- Cristhian Adames, who’s had a terrific camp, will be the Rockies’ primary backup infielder.
- The roster makeup will depend on how many relievers the club uses in the bullpen to begin the season. If the club breaks with seven in the bullpen, Barnes could make it. But when the Rockies return to Coors Field and increase their bullpen to eight pitchers, Barnes could be optioned.
