Tyler Matzek Will Start Rockies’ Home Opener

Sep 16, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Rockies pitcher Tyler Matzek (46) delivers a pitch during the first inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Breaking news this afternoon from the Denver Post where Nick Groke reports that Tyler Matzek has been named the Colorado Rockies’ starter for their home opener against the Chicago Cubs.

Matzek reacted to the Post: 

"“I’m excited. It’s going to be a great game. It’s a huge opportunity. Not many guys can say they started a home-opener. I just want to start the season off at home with a ‘W.’ I’ll give it my all.”"

With Kyle Kendrick already starting the road opener in Milwaukee and the Rockies lining up pitchers here in the final week of Spring Training, it made sense to tab Matzek, who was the Rockies best pitcher across his last six starts of 2014.

Matzek finished his 2014 going 6-11 with a 4.05 ERA, but his last 40.2 innings were dominant and he recorded a 1.55 ERA and a 4-2 record across those final six starts, including a complete game three-hit shut out of the San Diego Padres at Coors Field.

We’ve pegged Matzek as a possible regression candidate for 2015 based on his other-worldly finish to last season, but, he’s earned the job for now, especially considering Jorge De La Rosa won’t be ready for a few more weeks, at least.

Matzek hasn’t throw particularly well this spring, but he threw fairly well Tuesday afternoon against the San Francisco Giants, and left with the lead only to see the Rockies lose late in Scottsdale.