MRI reveals inflammation in Ottavino's right elbow

PHOENIX -- The MRI results on the arm of Rockies reliever Adam Ottavino came back Tuesday and revealed inflammation where the triceps tendon attaches above the right elbow, manager Walt Weiss said.

Ottavino went on the disabled list Monday and was replaced as closer by veteran John Axford. In a corresponding move, the Rockies recalled right-hander Jorge Rondon from Triple-A Albuquerque.

The news of the extent of injury isn't good for the Rockies, because any elbow injury these days could be a precursor to Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery.

"That's what we've got -- inflammation of the elbow," Weiss said. "When we get to Denver [on Monday] our team of docs will get a chance to look at him first hand and go from there."

Ottavino last pitched on Friday night, throwing a scoreless inning at home against the Giants, earning his third save. He hadn't allowed an earned run this season in 10 1/3 innings over the course of 10 appearances. His WHIP is a minuscule 0.48 (three hits and one walk) and opponents are batting .094 against him.

Weiss said he's optimistic that Ottavino's period of recuperation won't be any longer than anticipated.

"Right now, nothing has changed on that front," Weiss said. "We were planning on having him down for 15 days, and we're still expecting him to be down for 15 days."