Denver Post: Bullpen boost now becoming high priority

Forget the standings. The difference between the Rockies and Dodgers can be explained by their bullpens, underlining why the Rockies are actively looking for relief help.

The Dodgers have won nine of 11 games against Colorado. In the head-to-head matchups, Los Angeles’ bullpen owned a 2.66 ERA, compared with the Rockies’ 8.25 performance.

So it should come as no surprise that Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd is trolling for a reliever. Colorado had interest in Washington’s Joel Hanrahan, who was traded Tuesday to Pittsburgh, and would love to bring back Houston’s LaTroy Hawkins, though he’s not yet on the block.

“If something hits us in the face and makes sense, we have to look at it,” Rockies manager Jim Tracy said.

The problem is there are few upgrades available with so many teams still in the playoff chase. Arizona is willing to part with Chad Qualls, whom the Rockies have liked in the past. San Diego is expected to move Cla Meredith, though the Padres are not a common trade partner.

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