Rockies Notes: Francis Returns, Garland Gone, Colvin Is Up

As of this morning the Rockies’ probable pitcher for Saturday night’s game against the San Diego Padres was listed as “TBD.” Predictably they activated Jeff Francis to return and make the start in Tyler Chatwood‘s stead. Then another move followed that should please most fans and which clears the way for some intriguing moves in the near future.

Jon Garland is out and Tyler Colvin will get his first crack on the big league club in 2013.

Colvin is back. Image: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Garland’s steady hand was an integral part of the Rockies’ success in April as they labored through poor performances from Francis and Juan Nicasio. He was predictable but unspectacular, keeping the Rockies in most games. The thing is, you only keep a guy who gives up 4-5 runs in 5 innings a start if you do not have upgrades available. With Chatwood pitching well this year and Roy Oswalt and Drew Pomeranz waiting in the wings, it makes no sense to keep Garland around. Before long it might not make much sense to keep Francis around, but that’s another issue for another day.

Coming off a career year in 2012 and a nice payday this offseason, Colvin was sent to spend the first part of 2013 with the Sky Sox to get on track and establish some consistency. While there he posted a .293/.396/.531 with 9 home runs and 42 RBI. That is the kind of pop that can benefit the Rockies if they hit another offensive rut like they did against the Astros last week. Colvin will be tasked with doing what Charlie Blackmon was not able to do: phasing Eric Young Jr. out of the outfield situation.

The Rockies appear to be committed to making sure the best players play. If that is the case, these will not be the last moves we see in the coming weeks.