Rockies in serious talks with Yovani Gallardo

The Colorado Rockies are in serious talks with free agent right-hander Yovani Gallardo, reports Patrick Saunders of The Denver Post. Saunders adds that no offer is on the table quite yet.

Many teams had been connected to Gallardo throughout the offseason, but he had reportedly narrowed suitors down to the Houston Astros, Baltimore Orioles, and Colorado.

If a deal gets done, the Rockies would be forced to give up their second round draft pick. Gallardo was offered a qualifying offer from the Rangers at the beginning of the offseason, but rejected it. The Rockies' first round pick is protected.

Gallardo would be a good fit in Colorado, as the team's projected rotation is nothing special. 

As of right now, the Rockies would have Jorge De La Rosa leading their staff, with Chad Bettis, Jordan Lyles, Jon Gray, and Tyler Chatwood rounding out the rest. Gallardo would be a veteran presence in a rotation that definitely needs one. 

The soon-to-be 30-year-old Gallardo went 13-11 with a 3.42 ERA and a 121 to 68 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 184 1/3 innings pitched with Texas last year. His 124 ERA+ was the best of his career (minimum 5 games). 

Pitching in Coors Field, arguably the best hitter's park in the Major Leagues, could be a struggle for Gallardo. However, he is a good ground ball pitcher and may be able to avoid giving up loads of home runs. Last season, his fly ball rate was the 21st-lowest among starting pitchers in the Major Leagues. 

A deal is not done, though. Negotiations are ongoing between Gallardo and the Rockies, with other teams likely in the mix too. 

​-Devan Fink

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