The Colorado Rockies are in a state of flux, with a new leadership team aiming to restore respectability after a dismal run of form. But can they turn it around? Here's the inside scoop on every move they've made so far:
The New Era Begins:
After three consecutive 100-loss seasons, including a franchise-worst 119 losses in 2025, the Rockies had to make some serious changes. Enter Paul DePodesta, the new president of baseball operations, and general manager Josh Byrnes, who are tasked with steering the franchise in a new direction. Manager Warren Schaeffer has been given the full-time role, a vote of confidence in his abilities.
Free Agency Signings:
The Rockies' free agency moves were not splashy, but they were strategic. They acquired starting pitcher Michael Lorenzen, who will slot into the rotation as a solid second or third starter. Lorenzen, a former reliever, has proven himself as a capable starter since 2022, despite a 7-11 record and 4.64 ERA with the Kansas City last season. The Rockies also signed infielder/outfielder Willi Castro to a two-year deal, adding versatility to their lineup. Castro, who split time between the Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs in 2025, will provide depth and options in the outfield and infield.
Key Departures:
The Rockies lost some notable players in free agency, including shortstop Orlando Arcia, who signed with the Minnesota Twins. Arcia was a mid-season pickup for the Rockies but struggled to find his footing. Another departure was first baseman Michael Toglia, a former first-round pick whose bat went cold in 2025. DePodesta made the tough call to waive Toglia, who signed with the Cincinnati Reds on a minor league deal.
Retaining Key Players:
The Rockies managed to keep some crucial players, like right-handed pitcher Germán Márquez, who has been with the organization since signing as an international free agent from Venezuela. Márquez has a 10-year history with the Rockies, but his recent seasons have been marred by injuries and a decline in performance. The Rockies also held onto second basemen Thairo Estrada and Kyle Farmer, both of whom had their struggles last season.
Trades and Acquisitions:
The Rockies made several trades, with the first being the acquisition of reliever Brennan Bernardino from the Boston. Bernardino has been a reliable bullpen arm, appearing in 167 games over three seasons with a 3.46 ERA. They also traded for Jake Brooks, a former UCLA star, and Pierson Ohl, who pitched for the Minnesota Twins last season. In terms of position players, the Rockies traded for center fielder Jake McCarthy, a versatile outfielder, and second baseman Edouard Julien, adding depth to their infield.
Controversial Moves:
One of the more controversial moves was the trade of Ryan Rolison, a former first-round pick who never quite lived up to expectations. Rolison was designated for assignment and traded to the Atlanta Braves, now finding himself with the Chicago Cubs. The Rockies also waived Warming Bernabel, a promising young player who made an impact after being called up in July. Bernabel signed with the Washington Nationals, leaving some fans wondering what could have been.
Rule 5 Draft and Minor League Signings:
The Rockies selected pitchers RJ Petit and TJ Shook in the Rule 5 Draft, with Petit being a standout prospect from the Detroit Tigers' minor league system. They also signed numerous players to minor league contracts, many of whom will be at Major League spring training, including left-handed pitchers Adam Laskey and Parker Mushinski, and position players like Drew Avans and Vimael Machín.
International Signings:
The Rockies were active in the international market, signing a host of players on January 15th. These signings will likely start their professional careers in the Dominican Summer League, with pitchers like Juan Villamizar and Ismael Contreras, and position players such as Emil Perez and Omar Marrugo.
The Road Ahead:
The Rockies' new leadership has their work cut out for them. They've made some interesting moves, but will it be enough to turn the franchise around? And what about the players they let go? Could they come back to haunt the Rockies? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the Rockies are in for an intriguing season, and their fans are eager to see if this new era will bring the respectability they've been longing for.
