Rockies Promote Dugan Darnell to Major League Roster

The Colorado Rockies have selected the contract of right-handed pitcher Dugan Darnell from Triple-A Albuquerque, marking his first call-up to the major leagues. At 28 years old, Darnell is a former undrafted free agent who has steadily progressed through the minor leagues, overcoming early career challenges and impressing with his strikeout ability and pitch mix, including a 94 MPH fastball and a mid-80s splitter. This season, he has posted a strong 3.19 ERA over 53 2/3 innings with a 28.8% strikeout rate, earning him a spot in the Rockies' bullpen following recent trades that opened roster spots. Alongside Darnell, the Rockies have also recalled left-handed pitcher Carson Palmquist, who is transitioning from a starting role to the bullpen due to command issues and lower velocity as a starter. The team currently holds 39 players on its 40-man roster, with Darnell expected to begin his major league career in a lower bullpen role but with potential to advance based on his performance. Darnell's unique journey, which included playing in independent leagues and working a finance job before joining the Rockies system, underscores the varied paths players can take to reach the majors.