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Colorado Rockies Make Changes in Upcoming Rotation

By Kevin Henry

Aug 26, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Jeff Hoffman (34) pitches during the first inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 26, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Jeff Hoffman (34) pitches during the first inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /
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With the Colorado Rockies now employing a six-man rotation, manager Walt Weiss has the versatility to move some pitchers around when needed. That’s exactly what happened prior to Saturday’s game against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

After Tyler Chatwood threw on Saturday against Arizona, the rest of the week’s rotation was switched around completely to take advantages of matchups. It also gives one of the Colorado pitchers a chance to overcome a blister issue.

Chad Bettis (11-7, 5.17 ERA) was originally scheduled to start on Sunday in the series finale against Arizona at Coors Field. However, Weiss has moved Jon Gray (9-6, 4.41 ERA) up a day and he will now face the Diamondbacks. The reasoning was simple, Weiss said.

“Bettis has pitched a lot against Arizona this year and Gray hasn’t. That’s the biggest reason.”

Bettis, who has four starts against Arizona this season, will now take the hill in the series opener against the San Francisco Giants on Monday.

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There is also some uncertainty as to the starters for Tuesday and beyond. Jeff Hoffman (0-2, 6.60 ERA) was originally scheduled to go on Tuesday but it looks as if he will be pushed back until Thursday. Tyler Anderson (5-5, 3.43 ERA) is now scheduled to take the mound on Tuesday with Jorge De La Rosa (8-7, 4.88 ERA) following up on Wednesday. Hoffman will more than likely be the starter on Thursday as the Rockies open a series in San Diego.

“(Hoffman) has been dealing with a bit of a blister. He needs a couple more days to help it heal,” Weiss said.

Weiss was also asked about the status of reliever Jason Motte, who has been on the disabled list since July 27 with a right rotator cuff strain. Weiss believes the 34-year-old right-hander could return before the end of the season.

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“I think he can. I’m not sure. We’ll see how he responds, but it’s possible,” Weiss said of Motte, who has an 0-1 record and 5.66 ERA. “He’s thrown a few bullpens so the next thing is to face a few hitters.”

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