Rockies recall Freeland to start against Reds

Kyle Freeland officially returned to the majors Saturday when the Colorado Rockies recalled the left-hander to start against the visiting Cincinnati Reds. Freeland, a 17-game winner last season, was demoted to Triple-A Albuquerque six weeks ago after opening the campaign with a 2-6 record and 7.13 ERA in 12 starts. Freeland finished fourth in last season's National League Cy Young Award balloting.

The 26-year-old served up 16 homers in just 59 1/3 innings prior to his demotion. His troubles continued in Albuquerque as he went 0-4 with an 8.80 ERA in six starts with the Isotopes. Infielder Pat Valaika was optioned to Albuquerque to open a roster spot. Valaika, 26, was batting .128 with one homer and two RBIs in 26 games for Colorado.

--Field Level Media