Brenton Doyle is back on a rehab assignment, and the Rockies center fielder opened the latest chapter with a solid night at Triple-A Albuquerque on Thursday afternoon.
Doyle went 2-for-4 and drove in Albuquerque’s only run in a 14-1 loss to Round Rock as he resumed his injury recovery after a setback. The 28-year-old has not played in the Majors since May 19, when he suffered a left oblique contusion while diving for a fly ball. A few days later, he landed on the 10-day injured list.
This is Doyle’s second attempt to get back on the field. He started a rehab assignment on June 23, but that stint ended on July 4 after he picked up a left groin strain. He then returned to Denver for treatment and rehab.
“I don’t know if it’s just coincidence -- because it’s on the same side [as the oblique injury] or whatnot,” Doyle said before joining Albuquerque. “I’m no expert.”
It has been a rough year for Doyle, who won National League Gold Glove Awards in each of his first two Major League seasons, 2023 and '24. In 43 games with Colorado, he hit .207 with one home run and four RBIs, and his playing time dropped.
While Doyle has been sidelined, rookie Cole Carrigg has taken advantage of the opportunity. The switch-hitter has posted a .291/.365/.504 line with four home runs and 24 RBIs in 36 games.
The outfield picture is crowded at the Major League level, with Jake McCarthy, Mickey Moniak and Tyler Freeman all in the mix. Albuquerque’s roster adds another layer, with No. 3 prospect Charlie Condon plus players with Major League experience in Doyle, Jordan Beck and Zac Veen.
That could still shift before the Aug. 3 4 p.m. MT Trade Deadline.
For now, Doyle is keeping his focus on the day-to-day grind and staying upbeat as he works back.
“I can be as positive as I can around the clubhouse, be a good teammate, be a good friend,” Doyle said. “I’m getting close to being myself, physically, so I’m looking forward to that.”
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