DENVER -- The Rockies recalled six players from Triple-A Albuquerque in their first round of September promotions.
Pitchers Jeff Hoffman, Carlos Estevez and Zachary Rosscup, catcher Tom Murphy, infielder Ryan McMahon and outfielder Mike Tauchman received callups as rosters expanded Friday. The Rockies now possess a 16-man pitching staff and 15 position players.
"It depends on the game, how each of these guys will be used," Rockies manager Bud Black said. "But they're here to help us win a game. Each and every night there might be an opportunity for one of these six guys to help contribute to a Rockies win."
The Rockies' Major League roster sits at 31 players, while the 40-man roster is full.
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Hoffman has spent the most time with the Rockies among the callups, logging 91 2/3 innings in 16 starts and one relief appearance. He made two starts in Albuquerque, including Wednesday when he went five innings and gave up two runs.
The rookie said it felt good to get a physical and mental breather.
"I felt like myself down there," Hoffman said. "I went down there and just kind of relaxed for a little bit, had a week where I didn't do much and then went and made my start a few days ago."
The demotion of Hoffman was similar to what the Rockies have done with their other young starters. Antonio Senzatela, Kyle Freeland and German Marquez all moved to the bullpen or were sent down at various points this season.
Now that Hoffman is back, Black said the Rockies probably won't manage their rookies in the same fashion as the season concludes.
"We feel pretty good about them, the four guys in the rotation -- Bettis, Gray, Freeland and Marquez -- with how they're throwing and their stamina," Black said. "I don't think that there will be any maneuvering with long-term focus in mind like there was in April or May."
Worth noting
• Marquez will start the Sunday finale against the D-backs, Black said, replacing Senzatela. Senzatela had been penciled in a few days ago, but the Rockies decided to change course.
Marquez has thrown 131 1/3 innings in the Majors this year, going 10-5 with a 4.18 ERA. Senzatela tossed 125 innings and is 10-5 with a 4.68 ERA.
• Tyler Anderson is still on a rehab assignment but was with the club at Coors Field on Friday. Black said the Rockies haven't made a decision on when to activate him from the 60-day DL, and to not "be surprised if he goes back at it again in Albuquerque."
Anderson pitched three innings in relief Thursday, giving up just one hit and striking out four.
• The Rockies are still "talking about" calling up Ryan Howard later this month, Black said. Howard, the 2006 National League MVP, signed with the Rockies on a Minor League deal Aug. 12 and has hit .231/.200/.564 with three home runs and four doubles in 41 plate appearances.