The Rockies optioned starting pitcher Juan Nicasio to Triple-A Colorado Springs Friday, clearing a 25-man roster spot for returning reliever Rafael Betancourt.
Nicasio, whose turn in the rotation Sunday is expected to be filled by Drew Pomeranz, is 4-4 with a 5.31 ERA, 1.46 WHIP and 56:30 K:BB ratio in 81 1/3 innings over 16 starts.