Rockies Promote Eiberson Castellano, Outright Valente Bellozo

The Colorado Rockies have selected the contract of right-handed pitcher Eiberson Castellano and outrighted Valente Bellozo to Triple-A. Castellano will make his MLB debut when he appears in a game. His promotion opens a 40-man roster spot that was previously held by Bellozo who has already cleared waivers and accepted the assignment.

Castellano signed with the Rockies on a minor league deal in December and has quickly impressed at the upper levels of the minors. He posted a 2.72 ERA in 10 starts at Double-A to begin the season. After that strong performance, the Rockies promoted him to Triple-A where he allowed zero runs in six innings of work in his lone start in the Pacific Coast League.

The 25-year-old brings a five-pitch arsenal to the majors with a fastball that regularly sits in the mid-90s. His slider averages nearly 90 mph and he also mixes in a sinker, curveball, and changeup. Castellano has shown the ability to generate strikeouts but has struggled with control at times. This season he has a 23.8% strikeout rate and an 11.5% walk rate in 59 innings.

Right-hander Jeff Criswell was optioned to Triple-A to make room for Castellano on the active roster. Criswell had been used in limited relief roles this season and will now look to regain his form at the minor league level.

The Rockies are looking to add fresh arms to a bullpen that has seen increased usage due to injuries and inconsistent performances. Castellano’s promotion gives the team a new option with high upside and recent success at the Triple-A level.

The Rockies will continue to monitor Castellano’s development as he prepares for his MLB debut. The team has a 10-day window to activate him or send him back down. Colorado will host the Arizona Diamondbacks in the next series, beginning on Friday night at Coors Field.