LINCOLN – Saltdogs LHP Ryan Carpenter’s contract was purchased by the Colorado Rockies Sunday.

Carpenter, a 23-year older southpaw, pitched last year for the Tampa Bay Rays’ Advanced-A affiliate in the Florida State League, where he went 7-6 with a 4.67 ERA.

The Saltdogs have now sold 20 players to Major League Baseball organizations since the American Association expanded to 14 teams in 2011, seven more than any other club in the league.

Carpenter was originally selected by the Rays in the seventh round of the 2011 MLB draft out of Gonzaga University.

Since the start of 2013, the Saltdogs have sold eight players to Big League franchises, twice as many as the next highest American Association team.

Lincoln opens it seven-game exhibition slate Tuesday in Kansas City with a 7:05 p.m. tilt against the T-Bones.  For live game information, follow the Saltdogs on Twitter @saltdogsball.

The Saltdogs open up the 2014 on May 15 at Kansas City.  The home opener is set for May 23 at 7:05 p.m. against Winnipeg.  To get your Saltdogs Pick 5 ticket plan for just $45 today, call 402-474-2255 or visit www.saltdogs.com.