Entering the 2026 season with a reorganized front office and Warren Schaeffer preparing for his first full campaign as manager, the Colorado Rockies are determined to improve following a franchise-worst 119-loss season in 2025. Their spring training, set to begin in Scottsdale, Arizona, aims to lay the foundation for a competitive rebound amid significant roster changes and fresh talent.
Overview of Spring Training Location and Schedule
The Rockies will conduct their 2026 spring training at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, located at 7555 N. Pima Road in Scottsdale, Arizona. Pitchers and catchers will report on February 12, with the entire squad gathering for their first full workout on February 17. The team’s first official Cactus League game is scheduled for February 20, when they host the Arizona Diamondbacks at 1:10 p.m. MST. Other notable matchups include games against the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers on March 2 and Team USA, representing the World Baseball Classic, on March 4—both at Salt River Fields, starting at 1:10 p.m.
Broadcast Coverage for Fans
Fans can follow Rockies spring training games live through the Rockies Radio Network on 850 AM and 94.1 FM KOA. All times listed for broadcasts correspond to Denver local time. Key radio broadcasts include the season opener versus the Diamondbacks on February 20, with pregame coverage starting at 1 p.m., followed by the first pitch at 1:10 p.m. The radio schedule also covers games against other Cactus League opponents such as the Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Angels, Kansas City Royals, Cleveland Guardians, Chicago White Sox, and Detroit Tigers through March 23.
Television coverage will be available on Rockies.TV for select games, including the Diamondbacks opener on February 20 and other significant dates such as clashes with the Dodgers on March 2, Team USA on March 4, and the Guardians on March 8. The broadcast lineup ensures fans have multiple opportunities to watch the team’s spring effort unfold.
Significant Roster Moves Heading into Spring Training
The Rockies have made several key additions and departures as they prepare for 2026, highlighting a strategy to bolster their pitching staff and add depth across the lineup. Among the important new players are left-handed reliever Brennan Bernardino, offering veteran experience to the bullpen, and right-hander Michael Lorenzen, who brings valuable starting rotation depth. Additionally, right-handed pitcher Pierson Ohl joins to enhance bullpen options.
The outfield sees a boost with Jake McCarthy, whose athleticism and speed qualify him for all three outfield positions, and utility player Willi Castro, a switch-hitter capable of covering multiple infield spots and outfield when needed. Veteran infielder Edouard Julien is expected to provide experienced depth at second and first base. First baseman T.J. Rumfield, a Triple-A infielder acquired from the New York Yankees, will vie for a starting role as well.
On the other side, the Rockies are adjusting after losing several players. Left-handed starter Austin Gomber signed a minor league deal with the Texas Rangers after entering free agency. Likewise, right-hander German Marquez remains unsigned after becoming a free agent. Reliever Angel Chivilli was traded to the Yankees, and first baseman Michael Toglia was non-tendered before securing a minor league contract with the Cincinnati Reds. Outfielder Yanquiel Fernández was designated for assignment and is now a free agent.
Emerging Young Talent to Monitor During Spring Training
Several prospects have drawn attention leading into this year’s camp, signaling hopeful contributions in the near future. First baseman Charlie Condon, ranked as the Rockies’ No. 2 prospect by MLB Pipeline, is among those to watch closely. Outfielder Zac Veen, No. 11 prospect, provides speed and defensive prowess. Left-handed pitchers Carson Palmquist and Welinton Herrera, at Nos. 13 and 20 respectively, offer promising pitching potential.
On the mound, right-hander Gabriel Hughes (No. 14) and outfielder Sterlin Thompson (No. 15) also stand out as talented youngsters who could impact the roster’s depth. Their performances in spring training will help determine how they fit into the team’s plans this season and beyond.
Implications for the Upcoming Season and Team Outlook
Facing the challenge of bouncing back from the worst season in franchise history, the Rockies’ 2026 spring training is crucial in setting developmental groundwork and evaluating new and existing talent. With manager Warren Schaeffer leading the team for the first full season and a mix of freshly acquired players and homegrown prospects competing for roles, this period will be a proving ground for the organization’s future direction.
The inclusion of experienced arms such as Michael Lorenzen and Brennan Bernardino aims to stabilize the pitching rotation and bullpen, addressing one of the team’s major struggles. At the same time, the infusion of athleticism and versatility in positions like the outfield and infield signals a balanced approach to rebuilding a competitive roster. By monitoring prospects like Charlie Condon and Zac Veen, the Rockies seek to integrate promising players who can contribute at the major league level if they reach their potential.
Post-spring training, the Rockies will have a clearer picture of their starting lineup and pitching staff as they head into the regular season. The team’s ability to rebound from their significant losing mark depends largely on how quickly these new pieces come together and the development pace of their emerging prospects.
As the Colorado Rockies embark on their spring preparations, fans can anticipate an intense and hopeful period that will shape the trajectory of the franchise in 2026 and in future seasons.
