Skip to content

Rockies' Tom Murphy: Week or so away from returning

Manager Bud Black said that Murphy (forearm) could return in "a week to 10 days," Patrick Saunders of The Denver Post reports.

Analysis:

Murphy has been tearing it up in the minors during his rehab assignment, batting .375 in 26 plate appearances at Triple-A Albuquerque. Although the catching prospect is nearing a return to action, the Rockies have a tough decision on their hands once he's activated. Ryan Hanigan has been performing well at the plate and has been heralded for his ability to manage Colorado's young pitching staff, so it's not a sure thing that Murphy would knock him off the big-league roster upon his return. Murphy does have a minor-league option, but Black hinted that Murphy will get his fair shake in the big leagues at some point this season. "Murphy was going to play a lot [out of spring training]," he said. "He showed some power with his bat and we liked how he caught games last year." If Murphy does receive a spot with the Rockies immediately, he would likely enter a timeshare behind the plate with incumbent backstop Tony Wolters and knock Ryan Hanigan off the roster. The Rockies must make a decision on this front by June 23, which is the latest date Murphy can return from the disabled list.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox