Colorado Rockies: Bud Black clarifies his comments on David Dahl

Yesterday, Colorado Rockies manager Bud Black discussed David Dahl and his potential return from injury to the team. This morning, Black took to MLB Network Radio to clarify some of his comments.

As we reported in this article yesterday, Black told media members before Monday’s game against the San Diego Padres that Dahl would need at-bats before returning to the Rockies in any fashion. With under 20 at-bats under his belt before Monday, Dahl still needed plenty of time at the plate if he was going to be ready to rejoin the Rockies.

This morning, Black tried to explain his Monday comments that indicated there was a possibility that Dahl might not rejoin the team in 2017.

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When looking at the big picture, it’s important to remember that Dahl has just 222 at-bats to his credit with the Rockies. Called up on July 25 last season, Dahl saw action in 63 games and posted a .315 average. He also started his career with a 17-game hitting streak, tying a Major League record for a hitting streak to start a career. Chuck Aleno of the 1941 Reds is the only other player to start his Major League playing days with such a feat.

Things looked promising for Dahl heading into the 2017 season. However, a rib injury suffered early in March derailed the outfielder and Colorado’s plans. He has yet to see action in a Rockies uniform since then.

The 23-year-old Dahl had a strong night with Triple-A Albuquerque on Monday night. Batting second in the Isotopes lineup, Dahl went 1-for-4 with four RBI in Albuquerque’s 6-5 win over the Tacoma Rainiers. His three-run triple was part of a four-run fourth inning that propelled the Isotopes to the victory.

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In four games this season with Albuquerque, Dahl is hitting .333 with six RBI. He also played in two games for Class A Lancaster before being promoted to Triple-A. While with the JetHawks, Dahl went 3-for-7 in two games.