Brian

Fuentes

Brian Fuentes and Justin Speier are the top two candidates, though someone else could emerge and claim the job.

The Rockies haven’t won since then, so nobody knew, but Hurdle preferred the lefty Fuentes to shut the door against the Dodgers, whom the team plays in Coors Field this weekend. Righty Justin Speier should continue to get a share of the save chances.

Doctors believe inflammation was causing the soreness when Fuentes pitched.

There’s a chance he will return June 22.

Fuentes has yet to lock up a spot in Colorado’s bullpen. If he wasn’t out of options, he’d almost surely be sent back to Triple-A.

Fuentes has missed six weeks and become frustrated. His goal when he goes on a rehab assignment will be to prove he can throw on back-to-back days.

Fuentes had trouble getting loose Monday and was scratched from pitching live batting practice. Trainer Tom Probst doesn’t consider the injury serious, noting Fuentes experienced a similar problem last season and didn’t miss a game. Fuentes is expected to be Colorado’s top left-handed reliever this season.

Fuentes, who is sharing closing duties with Justin Speier, allowed a solo homer, but he struck out the other three batters he faced.

Fuentes has pitched 15 consecutive scoreless innings. Jose Mesa will likely pitch on Friday and Saturday if the Rockies are in a save situation.

Fuentes could have an even better chance if another left-hander (like Jerry Blevins) lands a bullpen spot. Neither closer candidate projects to be overly valuable on what looks to be a bad Oakland roster, but any pitcher in line for saves carries at least some value in standard fantasy leagues. It’s a situation worth monitoring all spring.