Rockies Now Podcast

In this episode of the Rockies Now Podcast, we break down an encouraging yet frustrating week of Rockies baseball as Colorado comes away from the Cubs series wondering what could have been after coming within a couple innings of a sweep. We discuss the bullpen’s continued struggles, the explosive 23-run performance in Las Vegas, and the growing excitement surrounding rookie standouts Cole Carrigg, TJ Rumfield, and Sterlin Thompson. The conversation also dives into the future of several top prospects, including Charlie Condon, Zac Veen, and Ryan Ritter, and what their emergence could mean for the organization moving forward. We also preview the upcoming series against the Pirates and Red Sox, discuss Hunter Goodman’s All-Star case, debate the importance of the MLB Draft versus the Trade Deadline for the Rockies’ rebuild, and examine how the new front office’s emphasis on player development is beginning to show positive signs throughout the organization. Plus, we touch on the viral journey of German soccer fan Freddy as he explores America during the World Cup and why Rockies fans have plenty of reasons to stay optimistic despite the record.

On this episode, Tom and Chris discuss the Rockies outfielders in our annual Rockies Player Previews as we near the regular season!

Spring training is officially around the corner — and the Rockies’ spring training roster/invite list is out. Tom and Sarah break down the most notable names, what it signals about the new front office’s evaluation style, and which prospects they’re watching closely once camp opens. We also react to Yanquiel Fernández being claimed and landing with the New York Yankees, what a “change of scenery” could mean for him, and why Colorado’s crowded outfield picture made this move feel inevitable — even if it stung. Then we dig into the big topic: WAR roster turnover. How a team that posted -3.5 total WAR in 2025 is trying to reset by cutting -10.2 WAR worth of departures, returning +7.4 WAR, and adding +1.9 WAR. We also touch on early FanGraphs projections, bullpen roles, and what the 2026 lineup could look like — including leadoff options, where Goodman fits, and who protects him in the order.

We break down the Rockies trading for Jake McCarthy from Arizona, what his speed, left-handed bat, and team control through 2028 could mean for the outfield, and how this move might create pressure and competition across the roster. Then we react to the Rockies signing Willi Castro to a two-year deal, why his versatility and switch-hitting fit what the new front office is building, and whether he’s an upgrade over Thairo Estrada. Plus, we get hit with breaking MLB news live during the show, including Kyle Tucker to the Dodgers, and we talk about Nolan Arenado returning to the NL West with Arizona—and whether that really moves the needle in the division. To close out the episode, we feature a full conversation from our guy Chris (Hoops and Homers / 5280 Media) with new Rockie Troy Johnston, covering his approach, mindset, MLB debut, and what it means to join Colorado.

The Rockies continue reshaping the organization off the field, adding former Mets executive Ian Levin to the front office and making key coaching hires—highlighted by new hitting coach Brett Pill (Dodgers org) and bench coach Jeff Pickler. Tom and Sarah break down what these external hires could mean for player development, approach at the plate, and culture under Warren Schaeffer. Then they pivot to roster needs: first base and second base options, veteran depth, left-handed bats, and what spring training competition might reveal about the new regime’s plans. Plus: Ubaldo Jiménez earns a Hall of Pretty Good nod and the hosts reflect on his legacy in Rockies history.

Stephen is joined by Sarah this week for a deep dive into a very different-feeling era of Rockies baseball. They react to the DFA of Michael Toglia and the Ryan Rolison trade, talk about why they’re buying into Warren Schaeffer as a “bridge” manager, and break down the massive front office shakeup with Paul DePodesta and Josh Byrnes – and what it could mean for player development, Coors Field strategy, and the future cores of Doyle, Tovar, Beck, and Moniak. The two also touch on Kris Bryant’s situation, dream pitching coach options, and why, for the first time in a long time, there’s a real reason for cautious optimism in Denver.