Howard was optioned to Triple-A Albuquerque on Wednesday, The Denver Post reports.

EDGE Analysis

Howard's stay with the Rockies lasted just four days, with his return to the minors coinciding with Harrison Musgrave's activation from the bereavement list. The 25-year-old made just one appearance during his brief stay with the Rockies, allowing just one hit in a scoreless inning of work. He'll continue to work as a starter with the Isotopes.

The Rockies recalled Howard from Triple-A Albuquerque on Saturday.

EDGE Analysis

Howard made his MLB debut out of the bullpen Sunday in the Rockies' 8-3 loss to the Diamondbacks, working around a hit in a scoreless ninth inning. The 25-year-old was deployed exclusively as a starter during his time at Albuquerque this season, so he should give the Rockies some extra length out of the bullpen. It's likely that most of his usage will come in lower-leverage scenarios.

Howard was optioned to Triple-A Albuquerque on Monday, Patrick Saunders of The Denver Post reports.

EDGE Analysis

The 25-year-old stood virtually no chance of cracking the Opening Day roster, as his presence on the 40-man roster can largely be chalked up to protection from the Rule 5 draft. Howard gave up seven earned runs in 12.1 innings this spring (5.11 ERA). He'll likely join the Isotopes' rotation after making his Triple-A debut last season and producing a 3.89 ERA in 14 starts.