When spring training opened, Bradly Blalock was part of the Rockies’ rotation depth. Now, come opening day, the right-hander could be integral to that rotation.
Even more likely, the 24-year-old will be the long reliever in the bullpen.
Either way, Blalock’s a pitcher to keep an eye on.
His window to make the 26-man roster opened wider on Sunday when lefty Austin Gomber was sidelined with a shoulder problem. If Gomber isn’t ready in three weeks — a distinct possibility — Blalock will be an option.
And a viable option at that, based on how he’s pitching this spring.
“We’ve still got three weeks left, but I really like the way Bradley is throwing,” manager Bud Black told MLB.com Tuesday after Blalock pitched three solid innings against the Reds in a Cactus League game at Salt River Fields.
Blalock fell behind several hitters but recovered and put up a solid line: one run allowed on four hits, with two strikeouts and no walks. Blalock was encouraged by his ability to battle back.
“Yeah, definitely boosted (my confidence),” he told MLB.com. “Kind of knowing I could throw all my pitches when I’m behind and … attacking.”
Blalock, acquired at last year’s trade deadline when the Rockies traded Nick Mears to the Brewers, was a strike-thrower in the minors, but he struggled with walks during his short stint with the Rockies late last season.
Blalock walked 19 batters and hit another in 29 innings with Colorado. By comparison, he only walked 29 batters in 89 2⁄3 innings at Double-A and Triple-A last season.
Black is impressed by Blalock’s three starts in the Cactus League.
“I really like what we’ve seen,” Black said. “I like the mix of pitches. The fastball command has been pretty good. The breaking stuff has been fine. Changeup is solid, so he’s doing well.”
Blalock has a 1.14 WHIP with nine strikeouts vs. just one walk.
The right-hander’s upcoming role depends on several factors. First, how long will Gomber be out? Second, will top prospect Chase Dollander pitch his way into the rotation, forcing Blalock to the bullpen? Third, will Blalock continue to pitch well?
Given that it’s the first week of March, there’s still plenty of time for all of that to shake out. Until then, he can help his cause by continuing to put up solid outings in the Cactus League.
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