Colorado Rockies add a pair of arms in John Axford, Kyle Kendrick

The Colorado Rockies offseason up until early February was a dud to say the least, but since then new general manager Jeff Bridich has picked it up a bit. Colorado agreed to terms with reliever John Axford and starter Kyle Kendrick over the past few days as they look to improve their pitching staff after a disastrous 2014.

Axford, 31, was as good as it gets in terms of closing ballgames for the Milwaukee Brewers back in 2011. Axford earned a record of 2-2, notching an ERA of just 1.95. During that very season, Axford collected just two blown saves, going 46-for-48 in save situations. That’s pretty darn good. It’s been a rocky road ever since as Axford has spent two years with three different teams (STL: 2013, CLE-PIT: 2014).

Last season with split-time between the Cleveland Indians and Pittsburgh Pirates, Axford closed 10 out of the 13 games, posting a 3.95 ERA. Axford was signed by the Rockies to a minor-league deal with a Spring Training invite.

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Kendrick, 30, broke onto the Major League scene in 2007 where he finished with a record of 10-4, including an ERA of 3.87. Kendrick has had somewhat of an up-and-down career (judging by statistics), but can be a good pick-up for this Rockies team – number five starter which they’ve been missing for quite some time.

Kendrick reportedly signed a one-year deal worth $5.5 million, including an additional $500,000 if the right-hander can log over 190 innings (good luck). Kendrick logged 13.2 innings pitched against the Rockies last season, collecting a record of 1-1. Kyle gave up three runs on 12 hits, including a home run and four walks.

Kendrick struggled with command quite a bit last season, issuing 57 walks over 199.0 innings pitched. Not to mention, Kyle plunked 11 batters by seasons end. The 30-year-old did however record 121 strikeouts, yet the home run ball seems to loom heavily over the seven-year pro.

All-in-all, I think these could be valuable pick-ups, especially if Axford can crack the roster and provide a stable presence in the bullpen. Also, if Kendrick can keep the ball down in Coors Field, I like his and the teams chances.