Rockies Gear Up: Roster Uncertainty and New Beginnings
The Rockies are busy shaping a 26‑man squad for the season opener on March 27 in Miami. Decision makers like DePodesta, Byrnes and Schaeffer juggle stats, experience, minor‑league options and gut feelings.
The Fifth Starter Dilemma
- Options: Chase Dollander, Ryan Feltner or a retooled Antonio Senzatela
- Righty: Tanner Gordon could also find a spot
Third Base Question
Kyle Karros’ readiness is debated; a stint in Triple‑A Albuquerque might be on the table.
Outfield Overcrowding
The team has an abundance of young outfielders, so a spring‑training trade is possible.
Bullpen Strategy
- Long relievers who can “piggyback” starters, but the exact plan remains unclear
- Potential long‑relief options: Seth Halvorsen, Jimmy Herget, Zach Agnos, Victor Vodnik, Juan Mejia and Senzatela
- Brennan Bernardino offers left‑handed depth
- Middle relievers: Keegan Thompson, Jaden Hill and veteran John Brebbia
Catching Showdown
- All‑Star: Hunter Goodman
- Speedy backup: Braxton Fulford (athletic edge)
- Lefty Brett Sullivan also in the mix
Infield Battles
- First Base: Rookie TJ Rumsfield favored over veteran Edouard Julien
- Second Base: Willi Castro stands out but could shift to third if Karros is moved down
- Shortstop: Ezequiel Tovar locks the spot
- Utility Infielders: Ryan Ritter, Tyler Freeman and Julien (Ritter’s performance has impressed Schaeffer)
- Sidelined: Blaine Crim with an oblique strain
Outfield Assignments
- Left: Jake McCarthy
- Center: Brenton Doyle
- Right: Jordan Beck
- DH/Backup: Mickey Moniak (can cover center or right)
The fifth outfield spot may see Freeman, Castro, Ritter or Troy Johnston compete for a role.
Looking Ahead
With 13 exhibition games left, the Rockies must answer many questions before finalizing their roster. The projected rotation centers on veteran left‑handers Kyle Freeland and Jose Quintana, and right‑handers Michael Lorenzen and Tomoyuki Sugano. If a five‑man rotation is chosen, Dollander appears to be the prime candidate for the extra spot. Feltner might stay in Triple‑A or become a long reliever, while Senzatela could remain in the bullpen.
The Rockies’ journey to recover from last year’s 119‑loss season depends on these decisions. The final roster will emerge after the remaining exhibition games.
