Colorado Rockies: Where Do These 3 Pitchers Fit?

Christian Bergman

Record: 1-3

ERA: 5.89

High point of the season: In a spot start against the Chicago Cubs on April 16, Bergman gives up just two runs in five innings against the high-powered Chicago offense.

Low point of the season: Bergman’s first appearance of the season was a disaster, surrendering four hits and four runs in just one inning on April 5 against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Analysis: Since straining an oblique muscle against the St. Louis Cardinals on May 19, Bergman hasn’t seen the mound for the Rockies. It’s been almost two months and no one on the staff could’ve realized at the time how much Bergman would be missed.

When he was injured, Bergman was firmly in place as Colorado’s long relief man. He knew his role and everyone in the organization knew that if a starter was struggling early, Bergman could be called upon to come in. The classic “tweener,” Bergman could start or come in in relief for Colorado. That’s a great piece to have on your staff.

However, when Bergman left with his injury, things fell apart when it came to middle relief. No one seemed to be able to fill Bergman’s role, with a host of pitchers, including Jordan Lyles, Eddie Butler, and even Yohan Flande, trying. None fit the mold.

Our opinion: Bergman is now off the disabled list and the Rockies have sent him to Triple-A. It won’t be long before he’s back in the bullpen in his middle relief role, and that will be a welcome sight.

So who will be out when Bergman comes back? Don’t be surprised if the Rockies make a trade at the deadline that might move a veteran reliever who’s currently in the bullpen, making way for Bergman’s return.

Next: What About Jordan Lyles?