Drew Pomeranz succeeding thanks to changeup

Rockies starting pitcher Drew Pomeranz is off to a stellar start in 2013 for Triple-A Colorado Springs. The 2010 first-round pick is 5-0 with a 3.18 ERA and 1.19 WHIP through seven starts.

Pomeranz has struck out 44 batters, walked 14 and has allowed three home runs through 39 2/3 innings.

"Drew has done a great job developing his changeup," Colorado Springs pitching coach Dave Schuler said, per The Denver Post. "When he pitches in the big leagues, he'll face mostly right-handed hitters, and for a left-handed pitcher, a change up is very important. He definitely has the pitches to be in the big leagues."

Pomeranz has struggled in his first two stints in the major leagues. He's 4-10 with a 5.01 ERA through 26 starts, but the Rockies are far from giving up on the left-handed hurler. Rockies director of player development Jeff Bridich said Pomeranz's struggles were because he was "rushed to the major leagues." Even Colorado Springs manager Glenallen Hill, who was a Rockies coach the last two years, sees a more confident pitcher this year.

"This year Drew has a clear understanding of who he is and where he wants to go," Hill said. "He's learned that he doesn't have to force anything."