Kyle Freeland (neck stiffness) plays long toss, targeting his next start

Kyle Freeland is cautiously optimistic about staying in the rotation after neck stiffness forced him from his most recent start against the Dodgers in the fourth inning. Per Thomas Harding of MLB.com, Freeland has since played long toss and described himself as feeling good, with hopes of making his next scheduled start.

The key word there is hopes — nothing about his availability has been formally announced, and the situation carries enough uncertainty that it warrants watching as his next turn approaches.

What we know

Freeland exited the Dodgers game in the fourth inning with neck tightness. The subsequent long-toss session is an encouraging sign that the issue hasn't escalated, but the Rockies have not announced him as cleared or attached any formal status to the update.

What remains unconfirmed

Whether Freeland will actually take his next start is still an open question. His own optimism is noted, but no timetable or roster designation has been announced.

Colorado has had a busy stretch on the health front — Michael Toglia is also day-to-day after dislocating his right shoulder on a diving catch — so the club's depth picture bears watching alongside Freeland's progress.