June 9, 2012

Canadian left-handed pitcher Jeff Francis. (FRED THORNHILL/Reuters file photo)

Denver, CO - The Colorado Rockies agreed to terms with left- handed pitcher Jeff Francis, who will start Saturday's game against the Angels.

The former ace of the Rockies pitching staff, Francis, went 3-6 with a 3.72 ERA in 12 starts for Louisville this year, the Cincinnati Reds' Triple-A affiliate.

While with Colorado for the first six seasons of his MLB career, the 31-year- old posted a 55-50 mark to go with a 4.77 ERA and 603 strikeouts in 882 2/3 innings pitched.

Francis spent last season with the Kansas City Royals, registering a 6-16 record with a 4.82 ERA and 91 strikeouts in 183 innings pitched.

In addition, the Rockies designated pitcher Esmil Rogers for assignment.