Alex White and Christian Friedrich both started well this season at Triple-A but had been major disappointments in 2011. So, after a limited amount of time (and success) at Colorado Springs, the pitching poor Rockies called up both White and Friedrich. While both undoubtedly have shown well at times, they were not ready for advancement. White has been demoted again and Friedrich was blasted again last night and now sports an ERA close to 6.00.

Cabrera is a fascinating prospect. A control artist with a renowned changeup. He’s had his best season in many respects. He’s never been more difficult to hit and his ERA reflects it. The problems are his strikeouts are down and the home runs, a problem a year ago are worse now. He may have been ready for Triple-A and the altitude test at Colorado Springs but the major leagues? Again, a rush job, and the results will be predictable.

The Rockies called up Juan Nicasio last season from Double-A. The book on him was outstanding control, a pitcher who could get outs on his own via strikeouts and a guy who kept the ball in the yard and runs off the board. He looked like a solid bet except for one factor – he allowed almost a hit per inning. It wasn’t like he was impossible to solve. Nicasio looked strong when called up, like he could develop into a no. 2 or 3 starter, before being injured.

This season, after a near-fatal injury on the mound last year, he doesn’t look right. He has the appearance of a no. 4 starter now.

The majors are a difficult place to learn, especially when you play home games at Coors’ Field.

The Rockies rushed White and Friedrich and are now doing it with Cabrera.

White might be destined for the bullpen in 2013, Friedrich could still become a solid starter but is learning lessons he should have learned in the minors this season and Cabrera will struggle, despite his ability, and be sent down later this season.

Colorado Rockies’ Prospects Report
and Rockies’ Analyst Magazine