Looking to the future

After an ignominious three-game sweep at the hands of the Kansas City Royals, the Rockies have an off-day today before starting a three-game series against the Detroit Tigers.

On the brighter side of things, three Rockies prospects were named to the Futures Game, which takes place the Sunday before the All-Star Game at Yankees Stadium. The game is a showcase for the future talent to be found on major league rosters. Unlike the All-Star Game, the Futures Game divides the teams not by American League and National League players, but by U.S. and World players. Dexter Fowler, Casey Weathers, and Ryan Mattheus were named to the U.S. squad earlier today.

Dexter Fowler is an center fielder playing for the Double-A Tulsa Drillers in the Texas League. Drafted in the 14th round of the 2004 draft, Fowler was set to attend the University of Miami, but after the Rockies traded Larry Walker to Cardinals there was enough money available to entice Fowler to pro ball. He did not sign in time to play in 2004, so he started his pro career in 2005 with the Casper Rockies (now the Ghosts). During that winter, Fowler took up switch-hitting. He steadily progressed through each level and now is only a step away from the major leagues. With a .314 BA/.395 OBP/.493 SLG so far this year, Fowler has played his way into at least a September call-up. He also can steal a bag or two, with 15 so far. Willy Taveras, watch out.

Casey Weathers was the Rockies' first pick in the 2007 draft, 8th overall. A right-handed reliever, Weathers signed and joined low-A Asheville for 13 games, recording two saves and striking out 19 in 13 2/3 IP. He had a one-game stint with High-A Modesto, walking two and striking out two in an inning. He moved to Tulsa to start the 2008 season. He's struck out 36 in 30 1/3 IP and has a 1.84 GO/AO ratio. Hitting the upper-90's with his fastball, Weathers should soon help the Rockies (and already would if money wasn't an issue). Eventually, he'll be the closer.

Ryan Mattheus, a right-hander, was drafted by the Rockies in 2002 and 2003 and signed as a DFE (Draft-Follow-Evaluate) candidate after his 2004 college season ended. Mattheus struggled as a starter and his 2007 season in Tulsa was his last in the rotation. He rejoined Tulsa in 2008 to be the closer. It's paid off. He's recorded 12 saves (though saves are an overrated stat) and has 2.08 GO/AO ratio. Groundball pitchers are exactly what the Rockies need. He doesn't have the plus fastball or slider that Weathers has, but he can be a decent arm out of the 'pen.

All three could see time with the Rockies later this year, and most assuredly in 2009.