DENVER — In a move that directly affects the Colorado Rockies’ pitching staff, the club designated veteran starter Michael Lorenzen for assignment on Monday. The 34‑year‑old right‑hander, who signed a one‑year contract in January, has struggled this season, posting a 3‑11 record with a 7.08 earned run average.
Lorenzen’s last win came on June 27, and his performance has prompted the front office to seek a more reliable option as the team gears up for a three‑game series against the National League West‑leading Los Angeles Dodgers.
Shook Called Up from Triple‑A
To fill the roster spot, Colorado recalled right‑hander TJ Shook from its Triple‑A affiliate, the Albuquerque Isotopes. Shook, 28, has appeared in four games for the Rockies this season, recording a 9.53 ERA over 5 2/3 innings. In Albuquerque, he has been a key reliever, notching 11 saves.
Shook told reporters Monday that he is ready to contribute in any capacity. “I’ve been called a Swiss Army knife in the past, so whether that’s long relief, short relief, closing, or starting, I’ve done it,” he said. “It keeps me on my toes. I just go out there, pitch, throw up some zeros and get ahead of the hitters.”
Background on Lorenzen
Lorenzen entered the 2026 season after a strong 2025 campaign with the Kansas City Royals, where he struck out a career‑high 127 batters in 141 2/3 innings. The Rockies signed him in January hoping his veteran experience would bolster the rotation, but the results have fallen short of expectations.
Designating a player for assignment removes him from the 40‑man roster, giving the team a window to trade, release, or outright the player to the minors. If no other team claims Lorenzen, the Rockies could retain him in the organization on a minor‑league contract.
What This Means for the Rockies
The promotion of Shook adds a versatile arm to Colorado’s bullpen. His experience as a Rule 5 draft pick from the New York Mets last offseason suggests the organization sees long‑term value in his flexibility. As the Rockies face a strong Dodgers lineup, the ability to deploy Shook in multiple roles could prove valuable.
Fans can expect to see Shook take the mound in the upcoming series, potentially in relief or as a spot starter, depending on the team’s needs. The Rockies will continue to evaluate their pitching depth as the season progresses.
Looking Ahead
The Rockies’ next challenge is a three‑game series against the Dodgers, a test that will highlight the impact of the roster change. With the team seeking to improve its win‑loss record, the performance of both Shook and any potential replacement for Lorenzen will be closely watched by the Denver fan base.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
