Grading every Rockies’ first round pick in franchise history

Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

2008 – Christian Friedrich LHP (25^th overall) Eastern Kentucky University

The Rockies took yet another pitcher in 2008, this time it was Christian Freidrich, a lefty out of Eastern Kentucky. Freidrich was ranked the 95th best prospect in baseball prior to the 2009 season and the 33rd best prospect prior to the 2010 season. He made his Major League debut on May 9, 2012. By August 3rd, Freidrich suffered from a stress fracture in his lower back, which ended his season after posting a 5-8 record with a 6.17 ERA in 16 starts.

He pitched just four games in 2013 with Triple-A Colorado Springs. Last season he appeared in 27 games in Triple-A, posting a 7.00 ERA but was called up to the big leagues anyway. He appeared in 16 games (3 starts) with the Rockies and finished with a 0-4 record with a 5.92 ERA.

Numbers with Rockies: 5-12, 6.11 ERA, 101 K, 109.0 IP

Where Are They Now? Bouncing back and forth from Triple-A and the Major Leagues. The Rockies moved him to the bullpen to see if he would become more effective, to no avail.

Grade: C-. Although his numbers aren’t pretty, the Rockies seem to be optimistic that he can transition to the bullpen. Considering all the pitching busts the Rockies have endured, Freidrich has been a breath of fresh air.