Chase Dollander Set for MLB Debut
DENVER — Right-handed pitcher Chase Dollander, ranked as MLB Pipeline’s 24th best prospect and the top prospect for the Colorado Rockies, is set to make his Major League Baseball debut. Dollander and Rockies Hall of Famer Todd Helton share a connection as they both starred at the University of Tennessee. Helton remarked, “He was sometimes around UT, but I never got to know him well.”
Helton believes that the 23-year-old Dollander has the potential to make a significant impact on the Rockies. He stated, “Many players have great abilities but don’t dominate in the Minor Leagues. Dollander’s quick success speaks volumes about his talent.”
Dollander was selected ninth overall in the 2023 MLB Draft and started his minor league career last year. He performed impressively at High-A Spokane and Double-A Hartford, where he achieved a remarkable total of 169 strikeouts over 118 innings. After a strong showing during Spring Training, he nearly secured a place on the Rockies’ roster.
After a successful start for Triple-A Albuquerque where he struck out five in four innings, Dollander is being called up to fill a position in the Rockies’ rotation. “I always hoped my time in Triple-A wouldn’t last long. I didn’t expect it to be this quick, but I’m ready,” Dollander said.
Manager Bud Black expressed enthusiasm about Dollander’s capabilities. “He has an impressive, lively arm. We noticed his potential during Spring Training. He has a good fastball, the ability to spin the ball, and works well with his changeup. I’m excited to witness his growth in the big leagues.”
The timing of Dollander’s promotion is quicker than anticipated, prompted by left shoulder soreness that has sidelined Austin Gomber. Instead of moving right-handed long reliever Bradley Blalock into the rotation, Black opted to integrate Dollander. This transition will be made official with his addition to the 40-man and 26-man rosters.
Dollander displayed Major League competitiveness in his earlier start, allowing six hits, including two doubles, while still striking out over one batter per inning. Black concluded, “In the Minor Leagues, you can get away with inefficiencies, but in the Majors, those will catch up to you.” Despite the team’s struggles early in the season, with a 1-6 record, the Rockies’ starters have averaged a solid 1.64 ERA.
