Full Breakdown
Colorado Rockies Pitcher Chase Dollander Placed on Injured List with Right Elbow Strain
5/16/2026, 1:51:41 AM
Dollander’s Injury and IL Placement
The Colorado Rockies announced Thursday that right-hander Chase Dollander will miss at least 15 days after being diagnosed with a right elbow strain. He left the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the second inning after allowing a double to Endy Rodriguez and walking Jared Triolo. The injury, described as right arm tightness, was confirmed by the team’s medical staff.
Background & Context
Colorado entered the 2026 season without realistic playoff hopes, focusing on developing young talent. The Rockies rely on hitters like Mickey Moniak, who leads the NL with a 1.032 OPS. Pitching depth remains a concern; the rotation includes Kyle Freeland, Michael Lorenzen, José Quintana, and newcomer Tomoyuki Sugano. Losing Dollander, a projected ace, heightens that need.
Key Figures & Groups
Chase Dollander, 24, posted a 3-2 record, 3.35 ERA, 1.149 WHIP and 47 strikeouts before his injury. In 2025 he was 2-12 with a 6.52 ERA. The Rockies also placed reliever Jimmy Herget on the IL, further thinning the staff. The remaining starters—Freeland, Lorenzen, Quintana, Sugano—will absorb extra innings while the club evaluates options.
Data & Statistics
- Dollander 2026: 3-2, 3.35 ERA, 1.149 WHIP, 47 K.
- 2025: 2-12, 6.52 ERA.
- Rockies record after series: 17-26.
- Rotation depth: five pitchers (including Dollander).
Official Statements & Responses
The Rockies issued a transaction notice confirming that Chase Dollander will be placed on the 15-day injured list because of a right elbow strain. The same notice added that reliever Jimmy Herget will also be moved to the injured list. Team officials said the injuries create an immediate gap in the rotation and that the organization will explore internal and external options to stay competitive.
On-the-Ground Reports
Colin Beazley of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported on X that “Rockies starter Chase Dollander is leaving this game with an injury after allowing an Endy Rodriguez double and walking Jared Triolo.” The tweet noted the early exit and the bullpen’s need to cover eight innings.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Place RHP Chase Dollander on the 15-day injured list (right elbow strain), the Rockies announced.” — Colorado Rockies, Official Announcement
- “Rockies starter Chase Dollander is leaving this game with an injury after allowing an Endy Rodriguez double and walking Jared Triolo.” — Colin Beazley, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (via X)
What’s Next
Dollander will be eligible to return after the 15-day IL, pending a follow-up exam. In the meantime, the Rockies will rely on Freeland, Lorenzen, Quintana and Sugano to start, while the bullpen absorbs extra work. The next series begins Friday against the San Diego Padres, testing the adjusted rotation.
