October 19th 2024.
Predicting the Rockies' offseason is a bit like trying to predict Colorado's weather - it's not an exact science. However, there are some trends and indications that we can keep an eye on to give us an idea of what might be in store.
One of the most significant and noticeable trends for the Rockies is their focus on developing and promoting young talent. General Manager Bill Schmidt and Manager Bud Black are confident that this approach will pay off in the long run and potentially lead to a turnaround for the team in the near future, possibly as early as the 2026 season.
This "construction project," as the Rockies refer to it, will continue throughout the offseason and into spring training as the team works to solidify their roster and prepare for the upcoming season. With that in mind, here is a breakdown of what we can expect from the Rockies in the coming months:
• According to multiple sources, the Rockies' payroll will likely see a decrease in the 2025 season. This is due in part to a decline in TV revenue, which is a major source of income for the team. Like many other MLB teams, the Rockies were impacted by the shutdown of regional sports networks. In 2023, before AT&T SportsNet went offline, the Rockies received about $57 million in TV money. However, their total payroll for that year was $171.0 million, ranking 14th in the league. With the switch to an online streaming service, the team's revenue took a hit, and their total payroll dropped to $147.3 million this past season. And even though outfielder Charlie Blackmon's $13 million contract has come to an end, the team still plans to spend less in 2025.
It's worth noting that this decrease in payroll is not directly related to attendance at Coors Field. Despite two consecutive 100-loss seasons, fans continue to show up to support the Rockies, and there has only been a slight decline in attendance. In 2022, the team averaged 34,467 fans per game, ranking ninth in the league. In 2023, that number dropped to 32,196, and this past season, it was 31,361.
• The Rockies will likely be looking to trade some of their veteran players, with second baseman Brendan Rodgers and pitchers Cal Quantrill and Austin Gomber being the top candidates. All three players are set to become free agents after the 2025 season, making them attractive trade pieces. Of the two pitchers, Quantrill is the most likely to be moved.
There are two main reasons behind the potential trades for these veterans. First, the Rockies need to make room on their roster for up-and-coming players, especially in the starting rotation. Pitchers like right-hander Chase Dollander and lefties Sean Sullivan and Carson Palmquist are making a case for their promotion to the big leagues. Second, by trading Rodgers and Quantrill, the Rockies could save money and use it in other areas. According to Cots Baseball Contracts, Quantrill is projected to make $8 million in his final year of arbitration, while Rodgers is projected to make $5 million. Gomber is also projected to make $5 million in his final year of arbitration.
• Whether through trades or free agency, the Rockies' main goal is to add a consistent and reliable hitter to their lineup. The team struggled with a .242 batting average last season, the lowest in franchise history, and had the most strikeouts in the league with 1,617. While young players like Michael Toglia, Nolan Jones, and Jordan Beck are still adjusting to the major league level and working through some growing pains, the Rockies need a veteran presence who can provide quality at-bats, make contact with the ball, and drive in runs.
• Another key area that the Rockies will be looking to address is their bullpen. Manager Bud Black has expressed confidence in their six rookie relievers - Angel Chivilli, Jeff Criswell, Seth Halvorsen, Jaden Hill, Victor Vodnik, and Luis Peralta - but he also knows that their success came in a relatively short period. GM Bill Schmidt has stated that he would like to add a veteran arm to complement right-hander Tyler Kinley.
• Finally, the catching situation for the Rockies is still up in the air as they wait to see how prospects Hunter Goodman and Drew Romo develop. Veteran catcher Jacob Stallings, who signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Rockies last offseason, had a $2 million mutual option for the 2025 season. While he has expressed interest in returning to the team, it's likely that he will negotiate for a new contract after a solid season in which he hit .263 with nine home runs and an .810 OPS. Stallings, who is 34 years old, is known for his excellent game-calling abilities and would be a valuable mentor for Goodman and Romo. Look for him to return and compete for the primary catcher role in spring training.
In short, the Rockies have some work to do during the offseason as they continue to build and develop their young talent. With some changes in the roster and a focus on adding key pieces, the team is hoping to turn things around and compete for a playoff spot in the near future. For more news and analysis on the Rockies, be sure to sign up for the Rockies Insider newsletter.
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