Morning roundup: Angels may skip Ervin Santana

Ervin Santana could miss a start, and Frank Francisco makes his return.

• Ervin Santana is scheduled to make his start on Saturday, but could be skipped the next time through the rotation, according to The Orange County Register’s Bill Plunkett. Since the team has an off day the following Thursday, they can rest Santana with all of their other starters staying on normal rest. In 116 innings pitched, Santana has a 5.97 ERA, and a 5.72 FIP. He’s already given up 24 home runs this season. Despite his struggles, manager Mike Scioscia does not think Santana will be moved to the bullpen.

• Mets reliever Frank Francisco is expected to be activated on Friday. He’s been out of action with a left oblique strain since June 23. Francisco began the season as the Mets closer, but struggled, and was replaced by Bobby Parnell once he hit the disabled list. Manager Terry Collins has said that as long as Francisco is throwing well, he will assume the closer role once he comes back. 

• With Troy Tulowitzki on the mend, Josh Rutledge has impressed with the Rockies. The 23-year-old shortstop has hit .375/.387/.722 in his brief audition in the majors. The Rockies would like to keep Rutledge’s bat in the lineup when Tulowitzki returns, and will move Rutledge to second base when that happens, according to The Denver Post’s Troy Renck.