Jeff Hoffman
Hoffman is easily the most intriguing of the Rockies options. The catalyst of the trade that sent Troy Tulowitzki to the Toronto Blue Jays, Hoffman is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in the sport.
That said if Hoffman wants a spot in the rotation he is going to need to earn it. Just because he’s the club’s top pitching prospect, and is projected to be a force at the Major League level does not mean the Rockies will hand him the job.
Hoffman watched as fellow youngsters Kyle Freeland and Antonio Senzatela impressed in Spring Training. The solid performance was enough for manager Bud Black to give Freeland and Senzatlea (23 and 22 years-old) the nod over the 24-year-old Hoffman.
Hoffman has struggled so far in Triple-A this season, owning an ERA of 4.80 in just 15 innings pitched. While he certainly has some of the tools to pitch at the Major League level right now, it may be best for Hoffman to stay down in the minors in an attempt to keep his regiment consistent, and also continue to work on some of the flaws he has yet to iron out in his game.
The Rockies are expected to contend for a spot in the postseason this year, so giving Hoffman ample time to perfect his craft for the long haul could be in Colorado’s best interest.
