The Rockies have shut down righty reliever Taylor Buchholz due to a case of right shoulder inflammation. This is a shame as Buchholz had a breakout season out of the bullpen for the Rockies in 2008. He pitched in 63 games this season and he was 6-6 with 1 save, a 2.17 ERA and a 0.95 WHIP. Buchholz might pitch later in games in 2009 for the Rockies.

Just a year ago Jeff Francis looked like a potential ace for the future of the Rockies but he fell on his face this season. He started 24 games for the Rockies this year and he was 4-10 with a 5.01 ERA and a 1.48 WHIP. Francis’ season is now complete as the Rockies have shut him down due to left shoulder soreness. This was a good move for the Rockies as the risk of letting Francis pitch again this year was not worth the potential reward.