Colorado Rockies recall RHP Christian Bergman, place Brooks Brown on 15-day DL

The Colorado Rockies have recalled right-handed pitcher Christian Bergman and placed right-handed pitcher Brooks Brown on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder inflammation, the team announced today.

The Rockies optioned Bergman to Triple-A Albuquerque on June 11.

"They wanted me to go down and work on my curveball," Bergman said. "I haven't been able to use it much, maybe somewhere down the line, if I start or something, I can use it more."

Bergman made one appearance with the Isotopes, a start in which he pitched three scoreless innings, allowing one hit and striking out four.

"I got something out of it," Bergman said. "I didn't want to go down there and just waste my time."

Despite getting a start with the Isotopes, Bergman said he expects to slot back into a long relief role with the Rockies. That said, the experience in Albuquerque gave Bergman the confidence that he  could start if called upon.

"I had three innings and 40 pitches and I still felt strong, I felt like I had at least another 30 pitches," Bergman said.

Bergman had a 4.18 ERA in 32⅓ innings with the Rockies with seven walks and 20 strikeouts, but had made just three appearances since May 22, so he was sent down primarily to get some work.

"It's weird but it's part of the job description," Bergman said. "There's stretches where starters are doing well and I just try to stay ready, stay sharp and take it one day at a time.

Meanwhile, Brown returns to the disabled list with right shoulder inflammation, the same injury that sidelined him earlier in the season.

"He had a good run there for a week or so," Rockies manager Walt Weiss said. "But we've got to get him right."