Rockies rumors: Colorado discussing Aaron Cook

The Colorado Rockies are expected to discuss internally whether or not to pursue free agent starting pitcher Aaron Cook -- who was recently released by the Philadelphia Phillies -- according to Patrick Saunders of The Denver Post.

The Phillies elected to cut ties with Cook yesterday, as assistant general manager Scott Proefrock told reporters that the team decided releasing the veteran "was the best thing for all involved." Philadelphia signed Cook to a minor league contract with an invitation to major league spring training in January.

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The veteran right-hander will take the No. 5 spot in the Rockies' rotation.

While Cook wasn't a favorite to break camp with the Phillies, he was viewed as veteran starting pitching insurance. If the right-hander would have accepted a minor league assignment, he would have earned a $100k retention bonus. It's not clear if Philadelphia cut him simply to avoid the payout.

Cook was effective over six appearances -- including three starts -- for the Phillies this spring. He maintained an ERA of 3.38 with four walks and five strikeouts over 18 2/3 innings. He could appeal to the Rockies given that he's known as a ground-ball pitcher.

Over 11 seasons in the majors, Cook owns a career ERA of 4.60 with a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 1.35.

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