April 6, 2008 6:58 AM
Speier belongs
RHP Ryan Speier was called up after Saturday's game. He deserved the chance.
Speier was a victim of the system in spring training. He had an option left, which meant he could be sent to the minor leagues without having to clear waivers. So when Kip Wells was placed in the bullpen, and with Luis Vizcaino having a two-year contract, Speier was the odd man out.
Vizcaino went on the disabled list Saturday becuase of his right elbow problem that sidelined him during spring training. He threw six pitches in the bullpen and felt the problem so he sat down and the Rockies made the decision to bring up Speier.
Truth is, Speier, more than anyone with a guaranteed contract, led to the decision to trade RHP Ramon Ramirez, who went to Kansas City. The feeling among the Rockies was that Speier was ahead of Ramirez.
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