DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: NL West—Rutledge optioned to Triple-A

Colorado Rockies

Josh Rutledge (2B, COL) hit just .213/.282/.330 in April, but managed to help his owners with three home runs and five stolen bases. In May, the batting line has improved to .286/.328/.397, with two home runs, but he hasn't stolen a base. He has just one extra base hit since the third of May, though, and a recent 2-for-16 skid sent him to the bench for a couple of games, and now, back down to Triple-A.

DJ LeMahieu (2B, COL) looks to be the beneficiary of Rutledge's demotion, at least initially, while he is swinging a hot bat. He was hitting .364 in 143 at-bats with Triple-A Colorado Springs, and has gone 7 for 17 with the Rockies since his call-up. He could provide a solid batting average, and offers some speed as...

Almost!

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