The Rockies are Stockpiling Pitchers

As if a trade with the Rays to net Jason Hammel wasn't enough, the Rockies are reportedly on the verge of landing yet another re-tread starter, with former A's-turned-Cubs pitcher Chad Gaudin nearing a deal to join Colorado in an effort to continue his career as a starter.

Gaudin, a throw-in with the Rich Harden trade last summer, underwent the exact opposite transition most starters have when switching leagues. Rather that thrive on the buffer from the National League's depleted lineups, his ERA exploded, his quality starts devolved into disasters and the Cubs couldn't get rid of him quickly enough.

Now Gaudin's cleared waivers, which means anyone can sign him for a measly $400,000. Evidently the Rockies are the most likely location to fit those conditions, even if they make Gaudin start in AAA while Hammel and the team's other four starters work out their roles. According to Tracy Ringolsby, both the A's and Padres would love to add Gaudin as a reliever, but he's committed to being a starter going forward.

It sure seems like another shrewd move for the Rockies, who are stockpiling cheap arms with the hope that some of them will work out. Some might wonder why the Nats aren't doing the same thing. He certainly couldn't work out worse than Gustavo Chacin, right?

By Cameron Smith |  April 9, 2009; 2:57 PM ET  | Category:  Cubs , Rockies
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