Rockies Scratch Feltner, Start Bullpen Game vs Braves

The Colorado Rockies scratched scheduled starter Ryan Feltner from Saturday’s game against the Atlanta Braves due to an illness, with Zach Agnos stepping in to start the game in what was described as a bullpen matchup. Agnos delivered a solid outing in relief work and has been effective in August, continuing a trend of scoreless appearances despite an overall limited role this season. Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer said Feltner was vomiting for much of Friday night and could have pitched if he reached the ballpark, but illness prevented him from starting and he may still be available later as a reliever. Feltner’s season has been challenging, including a recent stretch of rough appearances and a late-April IL stint for ulnar nerve inflammation, contributing to a rotation that has been banged up overall. The decision to shift to an Agnos bullpen approach came as the Rockies dropped the opener of the three-game set 6-4, reflecting ongoing struggles in a series against a high-powered Braves lineup. Overall, Feltner’s illness is not viewed as a long-term setback, and Agnos’ performance provides a potentially important depth option as the Rockies navigate an otherwise unstable rotation.