Dragon Slayer Fired: Josh Fogg Gets Cut By the Colorado Rockies

The Colorado Rockies removed popular pitcher Josh Fogg from the Major League roster today.

The move was no doubt a difficult one to make as Fogg was popular both with fans and the clubhouse.

He was given the nickname of "Dragon Slayer" during the 2007 season, with the team in which he had a knack for out-pitching other teams aces.

He was a prominent factor in the Rockies unprecedented run to the World Series in '07 and put up two consecutive years of 10-plus wins in a Rockies uniform.

Fogg has struggled this spring in very limited action.

Upon entering spring training, Fogg was given an opportunity to fight for the open fifth spot in the rotation, but seemed quickly removed in favor of him battling fellow former Reds teammate Matt Belisle for a job in long relief.

Fogg's contract states that if he is not on the Opening Day roster with the Rockies, he has the option to bolt to another team if they can guarantee him an Opening Day spot.

That opportunity may not be available since Fogg struggled through a tough '08 season with the Reds and is currently struggling in spring season. The reality is that Fogg will most likely accept a roll in Triple-A Colorado Springs to begin the season.

Fogg is an example of how nice it is to have depth on the mound.

With the struggles of the rotation this spring, it is not inconceivable that Fogg could not be done with the Rockies. If Jorge De La Rosa or Franklin Morales struggles early on in their respective roles, Fogg is an easy hour drive away from Coors Field.

With his experience it should make a smooth transition if one of the youngsters struggles out of the gate, or if a starter goes down with an injury.

The move also gives a better idea of how the Opening Day roster should shake out. Belisle and Glendon Rusch figure to have secured spots as long relievers.