Jeff

Fassero

Fassero is just trying to be a team player, but it’s unlikely he can be of any value with a 7.17 ERA when he hasn’t started since 2000.

Both veterans would probably only be offered minor league contracts.

It appears that Chin-Hui Tsao is now the favorite to become the Rockies’ fifth starter. If he pitches well Wednesday, he’ll make the team and Denny Stark will be waived.

Fassero was actually better as a starter than as a reliever for the Cardinals last season, but the Rockies still shouldn’t bother picking him up.

Fassero would get a chance to compete for a rotation spot in Colorado. The Rockies are also trying to sign Garrett Stephenson, Pedro Astacio and Turk Wendell to minor league deals. They’re no longer interested in Rick Helling or Scott Erickson.

Tomko will move ahead of Fassero to face the Marlins on Thursday, while Fassero draws the Braves on Friday. Better for Tomko, not so good for Fassero.

Fassero started six games last year, but prior to that hadn’t started since 2000. Don’t even think about bidding on him.

''It’s (a curse),’' Fassero said of his ability to pitch in relief. ''I came here to start, so I hope that’s where I stay.’' Not very likely.

''I am not worried about guys who aren’t here. Jeff is the fifth starter until further notice,’' pitching coach Bob Apodaca said.

Fassero has a 7.17 ERA, so this looks like a terrible move. Then again, adding Andy Benes to the rotation at this time last year looked about as bad and we all remember how well that worked out. That’s doesn’t mean Fassero should be picked up, of course. Although the 40-year-old left-hander is getting a chance to join the rotation, it’s very possible that the Cardinals will acquire a starter at the deadline and send him back to the pen.