The Colorado Rockies have recalled prized prospect Raimel Tapia from Triple-A Albuquerque and have optioned pitcher Jeff Hoffman, the club announced on Friday.
Tapia, 23, has been tearing it up in Triple-A, posting a .400 batting average which is good for second best in the Pacific Coast League. Tapia’s versatility and quickness will help give the Rockies a new dimension in all aspects of the game.
“This guy is playing great,” manager Bud Black said ahead of Friday’s game. “His skillset, hitter potentially off the bench or to start a game, pinch run, steal a base, play defense.
“I think Tapia, the way he’s playing, gives us the best player from Triple-A.”
Tapia has been great in the minor leagues this season, but due to the Rockies logjam in the outfield, he has been unable to find a permanent home at the Major league level at this point.
Tapia was called up in September of last season, posting a batting average of .222 in 24 games.
Hoffman was demoted following the best start of his professional career, striking out eight batters en route to the Rockies 10-7 victory over the division rival Los Angeles Dodgers Thursday night.