A Fresh Start for a Rockies Power Hitter

From a 200‑lb ballplayer to a 245‑lb powerhouse, Zac Veen is redefining his game and his life.
The 24‑year‑old has shed more than 40 pounds of muscle, but the biggest change happened off the field: he finally achieved sobriety after years of substance use.

“I was in a rough spot,” Veen admitted. “When I came home, I had to face myself and make a change.”

His renewed focus on health is paying dividends. He’s batting .273 this spring, delivering two walk‑off home runs that propelled the Rockies to victory. On Monday he launched a 113‑mph, 468‑foot blast into center field; on Friday he followed up with a 447‑foot homer for another walk‑off.

The turnaround was fueled by support from his high school coach, the Rockies’ development staff, and a specialized addiction program. Veen also began attending church and Bible study weekly, citing spiritual guidance as pivotal to his recovery.

Despite recent success, Veen still faces a challenging road to the opening‑day roster. Yet if he continues hitting at this level, the Rockies will find it hard to ignore his talent.