NEW YORK -- While utility man Matt McBride kept producing at Triple-A Albuquerque this year, his path to the big leagues was blocked. But the Rockies removed all obstacles Wednesday, and McBride will receive the first extended Major League opportunity of his career.
As he batted .328 with 12 home runs and 49 RBIs at Albuquerque, McBride was always on the outside looking in as the Rockies were crowded in the outfield and at first base. The fact he wasn't on the Major League 40-man roster also played a role, even though his name often came up in internal discussions.