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New deal is near for Rusch with Rockies

Ability to start, relieve adds to staff's versatility

By Tracy Ringolsby, Rocky Mountain News

Published December 8, 2008 at 11:04 p.m.

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Colorado Rockies relief pitcher Glendon Rusch delivers a pitch to Florida Marlins' Matt Treanor.

Photo by David Zalubowski, AP

Colorado Rockies relief pitcher Glendon Rusch delivers a pitch to Florida Marlins' Matt Treanor.

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Left-handed pitcher Glendon Rusch appears ready to return to the Rockies.

The club made an offer to re-sign Rusch last week, and indications Monday were the sides were moving forward. The deal is similar to the $850,000 Rusch made last season. And a key to Rusch's desire to return to the Rockies is his relationship with manager Clint Hurdle.

The Rockies project Rusch initially in a long-relief role but with the idea he could move into the rotation if a need arises.

The Rockies have a projected rotation of Aaron Cook, Ubaldo Jimenez, Jeff Francis, Jorge De La Rosa and left-hander Greg Smith, who came from Oakland in the Matt Holliday trade.

Right-handers Greg Reynolds and Jason Hirsh and left-hander Franklin Morales also will be given shots.

After joining the Rockies on May 31, Rusch was used in various roles, going 4-3 with a 4.78 ERA in 23 appearances, including nine starts.

Comments

  • December 9, 2008

    6 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    RDenver writes:

    Smart move. Rusch is a good pitcher. Always thought he should be a 4th or 5th starter.