San Diego – Dave Veres’ goal of becoming the first man to pitch in the major leagues with an artificial hip won’t be realized this season. The Rockies released the 40-year-old right-hander today as part of a Triple-A roster shuffle that featured the return of reliever Mike DeJean and the additions of reliever Todd Williams and veteran infielder Jolbert Cabrera.
Veres posted a 9.64 ERA in five games for the Sky Sox, and knew his spot was in jeopardy after not pitching for a week with a sore flexor tendon in his right arm.
“I am not going to hang it up,” Veres said from his cellphone. “I proved to myself that I could still pitch. The hip was no problem. I just need to get healthy.”
Veres is considering going to winter ball to ramp up his comeback bid next season. He would prefer it would happen with the Rockies, an organization he thanked repeatedly for giving him the opportunity this spring.
“My first choice would be to do it with the Rockies,” said Veres, who lives year-round in Colorado. “For not pitching for three years, I made a lot of progress. Maybe the rest will do me good. Then I can make another run at this.”
DeJean has been on the disabled list with tendinitis in his shoulder. Williams was signed after the Baltimore Orioles released him. He had been working out in Double-A Tulsa. Cabrera provides depth, particularly if the Clint Barmes remains on the roster in favor of Ian Stewart when a move will be required to make room for a fifth starter on Saturday. He had been playing in Japan.
Manager Clint Hurdle said the club is exploring both internal and external options to find a fit. Franklin Morales remains a possibility despite a difficult start last night Colorado Springs. Dan Serafini and Elmer Dessens are other alternatives, though their pitch counts would have to be adjusted to make them available Saturday.
Staff writer Troy E. Renck can be reached at 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com.
