Colorado Rockies Closer Adam Ottavino Hopes To Return By May

Our friend and Colorado Rockies closer Adam Ottavino made an appearance on MLB Network the previous day, talking to Brian Kenny in Studio 21 to explain what it’s like to come out of the bullpen both as a set-up man and closer. 

Ottavino also shared some news which should excite Rockies’ fans everywhere. The closer said he hopes to return back to action by May – or somewhere around there and hopefully soon.

"I’m hoping for May, but we will see . . .  when I’m ready, I’ll be ready."

That’s very encouraging to hear, especially coming from Ottavino himself. If you weren’t aware, Adam underwent Tommy John Surgery, a grueling and long process. Colorado desperately missed him in the bullpen the remainder of the season — then again, Colorado desperately missed a bullpen entirely.

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Ottavino was the closest thing to a shutdown closer during his brief stint patrolling the ninth inning for the Rockies this season. Adam made ten appearances out of the pen, collecting a record of 1-0 without allowing a run. Over 10.1 innings pitched, Ottavino surrendered just three hits while walking two and striking out 13.

The 29-year-olds splits this year were incredible even though it was a sample size. Against right-handers, Ottavino held them to a .059 batting average – one hit in 17 at-bats, compared to left-handers who collected two hits in 15 at-bats, which is good for a .133 batting average.