Colorado Rockies claim RHP Gonzalez Germen, transfer Justin Morneau to 60-day DL

The Colorado Rockies claimed right-handed pitcher Gonzalez Germen off of waivers, the team announced on Tuesday. To create room for Germen, the club transferred first baseman Justin Morneau to the 60-day disabled list.

Germen was designated for assignment by the Chicago Cubs on July 4 after allowing five runs in six innings of relief at the major league level. Germen struck out eight batters and walked five during his limited MLB action. In 33⅓ minor league innings, Germen posted a 3.78 ERA with 27 strikeouts and 17 walks.

Over the last seven months, Germen has been designated for assignment four times. The 27-year-old reliever will begin his stint in the Rockies organization at Triple-A Albuquerque.

Morneau has not played since May 13 as a result of dealing with post-concussion effects. The defending National League batting champion was hitting .290/.317/.450 at the time of his injury. Morneau, 34, is in the second season of a two-year, $12.5 million deal that includes a mutual option for 2016.

The first thing that comes to mind here is Morneau's health. The 13-year veteran's career was derailed by post-concussion symptoms at the start of the decade, so this isn't his first time dealing with the troubling condition. We wish him well as he continues working toward getting back on the field.