Rockies outfielder David Dahl expected to be out weeks; LHP Chris Rusin hurt, too | The Denver Post
David Dahl, the Rockies’ expected starting left fielder, has not played since he was scratched from Monday’s game due to pain in his upper-back. The team fears the injury is more significant than originally thought to be, and according to manager Bud Black, Dahl will be out “at least a few weeks.”
Additionally, Chris Rusin removed himself from Friday’s game against Cleveland, reporting tightness in his right side. He is not expected to make his next start.
CarGo excited to join Venezuela for Classic | MLB.com
Carlos González isn’t shy about his excitement for the upcoming World Baseball Classic. “It's way more fun than playing baseball in Spring Training” he told MLB.com’s Barry Bloom. “I love the tournament. It's one of my favorite things.”
González will join a rather stacked Team Venezuela on Tuesday in Surprize, Arizona. In addition to CarGo, the team boasts All-Stars Félix Hernández, Miguel Cabrera, José Altuve, Salvador Pérez and more.
Nolan Arenado and Jake McGee will also take their leave from Rockies camp on Tuesday. They will join Team USA in Fort Myers, Florida.
Versatile Desmond adapts to challenges at first | MLB.com
The Rockies sought a ballplayer first and foremost in their offseason search to fill a hole at first base. For eight year veteran Ian Desmond, the move to the right side of the field is a challenge, but one he’s willing to take. Last year for the Rangers, Desmond moved to left field and then to center after playing seven seasons at shortstop for the Nationals. Though a new position is not longer a new concept for Desmond, this is his first experience manning an infield corner. Still, the Rockies have put their faith into him figuring it out.
Miguel Castro — stronger, more poised — looking for rebound year with Rockies | The Denver Post
At just 22-years-old, Miguel Castro has already seen major league action in both of the last two seasons. Widely considered within the organization to be an exciting piece of the Rockies’ future, Castro struggled in 2016, posting a 6.11 ERA in 18 games last season. Recurring shoulder injuries shut Castro down mid-August, and he’s spent his offseason getting both his mind and body in major league shape. The lanky right hander added 15 pounds to his frame, and is learning to keep his emotions under wraps on the mound.