The Colorado Rockies are preparing for a significant rebuilding phase in 2026 following a difficult 2025 season, where they finished 43-119, placing last in the National League West. With a focus on the Colorado Rockies rebuilding 2026 efforts, the team under second-year manager Warren Schaeffer, who holds a 36-86 record, aims to reverse the downward trend at Denver’s mile-high ballpark.
Front Office Changes Signal Fresh Direction
Paul DePodesta steps in as the president of baseball operations in his first season with the Rockies, bringing extensive experience after a decade with the Cleveland Browns. DePodesta, known for his role in baseball analytics and strategy, has also hired Josh Byrnes, formerly with the Dodgers and Padres, as his chief assistant. This new leadership hopes to address recurring issues that have hindered the team’s consistency and postseason aspirations.
Team Composition: Key Players and Roster Movements
The Rockies’ payroll will still reflect a substantial luxury tax hit due mainly to outfielder Kris Bryant, who earns $26 million despite limited playing time in recent years due to lumbar degenerative disc disease. Bryant, now 34, has played just 170 games over four seasons and was absent most of last year, with the team appearing to plan for the future without him.
Colorado returns several notable players including catcher Hunter Goodman, who impressed with 31 home runs and a Silver Slugger Award, outfielder Jordan Beck, and shortstop Ezequiel Tovar. The pitching staff includes left-hander Kyle Freeland, who was the only starter with an ERA below 6.30 last year, along with Tanner Gordon and Ryan Feltner. Among relief pitchers, Jimmy Herget, Juan Mejia, and Victor Vodnik are expected to contribute.
Recent acquisitions add depth to the roster, highlighted by infielder Willi Castro and right-hander Michael Lorenzen signing as free agents. The team also brought in Jake McCarthy and Edouard Julien via trades, and added younger talent like Brett Sullivan, Nicky Lopez, and John Brebbia from the minors. However, the Rockies lost several veterans including German Marquez, Thairo Estrada, Austin Gomber, Orlando Arcia, Kyle Farmer, Jacob Stallings, and Michael Toglia to free agency or waivers.
Addressing the Pitching Woes Is Critical
Despite the offensive contributions from players like Goodman, the Rockies struggle to find reliable pitching. Last season, Freeland led the league in losses with 17, even though his ERA was under 5.00, which underscores the team’s need to bolster the starting rotation and bullpen. DePodesta’s challenge is to build a pitching staff capable of contending in the thin air of Denver, a task that previous lineups have failed to accomplish consistently.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season and Beyond
With only five postseason appearances in 33 years and none since 2018, the Rockies have yet to establish a sustainable contender. Fangraphs projects the team to win about 65 games in 2026, reflecting cautious optimism under the new leadership. The combination of fresh front office perspectives, some promising young talent, and targeted additions suggest the Rockies are committed to a bold rebuild that could ultimately create a more competitive future.
“We have to find pitching – it’s the biggest problem for us right now.” ?Paul DePodesta, President of Baseball Operations
