Rockies Option Dollander, Nationals Demote Salazar

The Colorado Rockies have optioned rookie pitcher Chase Dollander to Triple-A Albuquerque following a challenging start to his MLB career, including a recent outing in July where he allowed nine earned runs. Dollander, the 2023 first-round pick, posted a 2-9 record with a 6.68 ERA over 15 starts, and particularly struggled at Coors Field with a 9.37 ERA in eight starts. The team's pitching staff continues to face difficulties, ranking last in strikeouts and allowing the most hits and earned runs in the league. Bradley Blalock, who has a 12.94 ERA in five games, has been recalled to replace Dollander. Despite the setbacks, the Rockies still consider Dollander a future cornerstone of their rotation. Separately, the Washington Nationals have optioned pitcher Eduardo Salazar to Triple-A Rochester after he gave up 27 earned runs in 29 innings, creating a roster spot for the newly signed Luis Garcia.