Intersting Zephyr's note - Backe has been starting

[bobrek]

Backe has now started 2 games at New Orleans. The first he gave up 1 ER in 4 innings, but took the loss. Last night he pitched 5 scoreless innings to get the win.

[No Worries]

Do you happen to know the Zeph's current starting rotation?

[Buck Turgidson]

It's kinda cobbled together right now, with the call-ups of Griffiths (back in N.O.) and now Duckworth for spot starts.

Buchholz, Carlos, Fernandez, Griffiths, Duckworth, with Backe filling in as needed.

[bobrek]

Buckholz
Hernandez
Fernandez
Duckworth/Griffiths
Backe

[No Worries]

What is up with Chad Qualls? Is he hurt or just pushed into the bullpen?

Does anyone know if Rodrigo Rosario will be ready to play this year?

[Buck Turgidson]

No idea on Rosario's progress, but I'd imagine he's in Florida rehabbing.

The player development guys decided that Qualls' future is as a late inning guy, due to his 2 "plus" pitches (FB & slider, he was having trouble controlling his off-speed stuff). He's pitched well since moving to the pen, could probably help out the big club in a few weeks. They've fast-tracked Russ Springer, giving him a majority of the late inning work (while Qualls' arm is adjusting to relief work) to see if he can help the 'Stros sooner.