Colorado Rockies: An injury update on Jon Gray and the return of Raimel Tapia

ARLINGTON- Colorado Rockies manager Bud Black spoke with the media, including Rox Pile, prior to the Rockies taking on the Texas Rangers in the first of a three-game series on Monday. Among other updates, Black provided an update on Rockies starting pitcher Jon Gray.

Gray, 29, left his start after 2+ innings on Saturday when the team was playing against the Los Angeles Dodgers. He left holding his right arm.

Black said that moments ago, Gray played catch on the field at Globe Life Park in Arlington and he “felt better” than he did on Saturday. However, Black said that the “true test” will be on Tuesday when Gray throws in his side session. After he does that on Tuesday, the Rockies will then determine what to do from there.

If Gray does stay on schedule for his next start, he would start against the Atlanta Braves in the first game of the Rockies upcoming homestand.

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Colorado Rockies outfielder Raimel Tapia has returned to the active roster

The Colorado Rockies activated outfielder Raimel Tapia (sprained toe) off the 10-day injured list prior to Monday’s game against the Texas Rangers. In a corresponding move, the Colorado Rockies designated infielder Taylor Motter for assignment.

For Tapia, he returns but he does not return to his familiar leadoff spot. Connor Joe, who has been the Rockies leadoff man with Tapia’s absence, has flourished in the role so, at least for Monday, he will remain there. Joe will play first base while Tapia will play left field. Tapia will bat 7th in the Rockies lineup and regular first baseman C.J. Cron will be the designated hitter.

Black said, though, that he will probably use Tapia in center field from time to time to keep Joe’s bat in the lineup. Tapia does have 36 career games in the majors played in center field and nearly 400 in the minors so he has plenty of experience playing the position.

Stay tuned to our site and our Twitter page as we will have more from Arlington throughout the series.