DENVER -- The Rockies cleared a spot on their 40-man Major League roster by outrighting right-handed relief pitcher Joe Harvey, whose 2020 season ended with a right forearm strain sustained during an Aug. 20 game, to Triple-A Albuquerque.

Harvey, 28, who logged four scoreless outings covering 3 1/3 innings, has the right to opt for free agency.

? What to know: Rockies 2020 offseason FAQ

The Rockies received Harvey in a 2019 Trade Deadline deal with the Yankees. He posted a 5.63 ERA (five earned runs in eight innings) over nine appearances for Colorado in ¡¯19, and began ¡¯20 at the alternate training site. Harvey¡¯s early outings provided hope for a struggling bullpen before the injury occurred. He did not undergo surgery.

The move leaves the Rockies¡¯ current roster at 34. Sunday is the deadline for the expected reinstatement of four players. There's outfielder Ian Desmond, who chose not to play the ¡¯20 season. There were also three players on the injured list: right-handed starter Peter Lambert (Tommy John right elbow surgery), righty reliever Scott Oberg (thoracic outlet surgery), and outfielder David Dahl (right shoulder surgery). The roster limit is 40.