Colorado Rockies Pitcher David Hale Rehabbing in Modesto

Sep 25, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Braves starting pitcher David Hale (57) delivers a pitch to Pittsburgh Pirates third baseman Josh Harrison (5) in the first inning of their game at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

After the Colorado Rockies acquired David Hale this winter from the Atlanta Braves, a strained oblique shut him down for much of the spring. Now, he looks to return fairly soon.

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According to Brian Vanderbeek of The Modesto Bee, the Colorado Rockies have sent right-handed pitcher David Hale to Modesto to begin a rehab assignment with the Nuts of the Class-A Advanced California League.

Hale will start Monday night against Visalia, and be limited to three innings of work.

From then on, his timetable will depend on how he feels recovering from the strained oblique.

Hale’s improving health comes at an important time for the Rockies, who are trying to find consistency in the starting rotation early in this young season.

Jorge De La Rosa, who returns Monday night against the Padres after his own rehab assignment to recover from a strained groin, will anchor the rotation as its ace moving forward.

But, the starters have struggled with command, walking 35 hitters and hitting another seven in just 68.1 innings this season. With Eddie Butler (1.63 WHIP) and Kyle Kendrick (1.86 WHIP) living dangerously, and Tyler Matzek and Jordan Lyles struggling to find the plate at times, too, Hale’s return would be an interesting development for the club seeking to put the best five arms in the starting rotation this year.

Modesto and Visalia start at 8:05 pm MT tonight at John Thurman Field in Modesto, and audio for the game is available for those interested in following Hale’s first rehab start.

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