Denver Post sports writer Patrick Saunders recently addressed Zac Veen’s significant offseason weight gain, weighing in on how it could affect his chance to make the Colorado Rockies’ roster this season. Veen added 45 pounds in the offseason, a development that has sparked conversation about his transformation from a speedy minor leaguer to a power hitter. Fans and analysts alike are curious whether this physical change will translate into success at the major league level.
Veen’s story remains among the most compelling narratives in the Rockies’ spring training. Patrick Saunders notes that beyond physical changes, Veen faces major questions regarding overcoming personal challenges and proving his skills can succeed in the big leagues. While his power was on display with a 468-foot home run against the Chicago White Sox, it remains uncertain if this will erase previous doubts about his defense and consistency.
“For the record, while we were waiting to walk on the field to interview manager Warren Schaeffer after the game, I called Veen’s walk-off homer. But then, so did Cory Little, the head of Rockies media relations, and so did Schaeffer,”
Saunders shared, underscoring the moment’s significance. However, he adds a cautious evaluation of Veen’s weight gain impact:
“He wasn’t eating much at all, so he needed to gain weight/muscle. But overall, I don’t think 45 pounds makes him a better player; he was not a solid outfielder to begin with. He looks more like a designated hitter to me, perhaps a serviceable outfielder.”
Regarding Veen’s chances of making the team out of spring training, Saunders believes it is unlikely under current conditions but acknowledges that trades or injuries might create an opportunity later on.
Outfield Depth and the Role of Designated Hitter Within the Rockies
Questions about the designated hitter slot have also come up, particularly in relation to Mickey Moniak. With an overcrowded outfield, Moniak’s defensive struggles last year—highlighted by seven errors and a -2.7 defensive WAR—have led some fans to wonder if he might transition permanently into a DH role.
Saunders responds that the Rockies are expected to utilize flexibility in their outfield, rotating players frequently.
“It’s looking like the Rockies will be mixing and matching their outfielders on a regular basis, and the player who is not on the field will likely be the designated hitter,”
he explained. The team’s best defensive outfield combination appears to be Jake McCarthy in left, Brenton Doyle in center, and Jordan Beck in right.
Even with defensive concerns, Moniak remains a critical piece in the Rockies’ rebuilding process. Saunders highlighted the manager’s strong endorsement:
“Manager Warren Schaeffer loves his energy and leadership, and he’s very popular with his teammates. Plus, he provides the offense with a much-needed spark.”
Moniak’s offensive stats last season were solid, boasting a .270/.306/.518 slash line with 24 home runs.
Rockies’ Pitching Staff and Roster Composition for 2024
Fans have expressed curiosity about the Rockies’ pitching depth this season, particularly since the team signed several veteran starters. Paul DePodesta and the Rockies’ front office bolstered the rotation with Michael Lorenzen, Tomoyuki Sugano, and Jose Quintana, signaling an intent to balance youth with experience.
However, Saunders does not foresee a noticeably larger pitching staff than usual. The structure will likely resemble a traditional setup with five starters, eight relievers, and thirteen position players. He anticipates considerable movement between the major leagues and the minors, with potential experimentation involving the use of an opener in some games.
When asked about the likely composition of the starting rotation, Saunders confirmed that Kyle Freeland, Lorenzen, Quintana, and Sugano fill four spots. For the fifth starter role, Ryan Feltner seems to be the early frontrunner, provided he maintains health and consistency.
Chase Dollander appears unlikely to make the opening day roster but is expected to be called up during the season once he earns it, while Tanner Gordon might become a valuable option later. Bradley Blalock, previously in contention, is no longer with the Rockies, having been claimed off waivers by the Miami Marlins.
D.J. LeMahieu’s Free Agency and Potential Fit with the Rockies
Another popular inquiry involved former Rockies infielder D.J. LeMahieu, currently a free agent, with fans wondering if signing him could benefit the team through veteran leadership and experience.
Against hopes for his return, Saunders expressed skepticism. There have been no official reports of LeMahieu’s interest, and rumors suggest he may retire following his release from the Yankees last summer. The financial aspect remains in his favor, as the Yankees owe him $15 million this season.
“As much as I like LeMahieu (one of my favorite players I’ve covered), he has no place on this Rockies team,”
Saunders stated.
“Injuries have drained his talent, and the Rockies need to start developing younger players rather than returning to their distant past.”
Broadcast Coverage and Accessibility for Rockies Games in 2024
Regarding how fans can watch Rockies games this season, the media offerings remain largely consistent with last year. The games will be available via streaming platforms and through traditional cable or satellite providers.
In partnership with 9News, the local NBC affiliate, the Rockies will broadcast ten home games over the air, providing free access to viewers in the region. All contests will air on KTVD, channel 20, with five of these games also simulcast on KUSA/9News. The broadcast schedule begins April 3 with the home opener against the Philadelphia Phillies and includes most Friday games and one in early August.
For additional viewing details, Saunders points fans to the official Rockies programming page. On the radio side, all games will continue to be broadcast on KOA (850 AM/94.1 FM).
Significance and Future Outlook for the Rockies and Zac Veen
Zac Veen’s transformation in physique and playing style this spring represents a pivotal moment for the Rockies’ youth movement, highlighting the club’s hope that his raw talent can finally mature into consistent major league production. While his defensive questions and uncertainty about his readiness keep his roster spot tenuous, Veen embodies the team’s ongoing struggles and aspirations alike.
The Rockies’ blend of veteran pitchers and emerging players reflects a strategy focused on growth while managing expectations. The outfield battle and the DH role remain fluid, underscoring the team’s flexible approach as it navigates roster challenges. Meanwhile, the team’s choice to avoid revisiting older veterans like LeMahieu signals a commitment to building anew rather than relying on past stars.
As fans await the 2024 season opener, Zac Veen’s progress and the Rockies’ roster decisions will offer key insights into the franchise’s trajectory. Injuries, trades, and performance in spring training will all shape who eventually makes the cut and what prospects emerge as difference-makers in a competitive National League West.
“For the record, while we were waiting to walk on the field to interview manager Warren Schaeffer after the game, I called Veen’s walk-off homer. But then, so did Cory Little, the head of Rockies media relations, and so did Schaeffer.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“He wasn’t eating much at all, so he needed to gain weight/muscle. But overall, I don’t think 45 pounds makes him a better player; he was not a solid outfielder to begin with. He looks more like a designated hitter to me, perhaps a serviceable outfielder.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“It’s looking like the Rockies will be mixing and matching their outfielders on a regular basis, and the player who is not on the field will likely be the designated hitter. The Rockies’ best defensive outfield would be newcomer Jake McCarthy in left, Brenton Doyle in center, and Jordan Beck in right.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“Manager Warren Schaeffer loves [Moniak’s] energy and leadership, and he’s very popular with his teammates. Plus, he provides the offense with a much-needed spark.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“The signing of three veteran starters—right-handers Michael Lorenzen and Tomoyuki Sugano, and lefty Jose Quintana—enabled the team to buy some time for its young starters to improve without getting scorched by being thrown into the fire.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“There will be five starters, eight relievers and 13 position players.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“My pick for the fifth starter, at least early in spring training, is Ryan Feltner. Apart from Dollander, I think Feltner has the best raw stuff on the team. But Feltner needs to stay healthy and put together a full season, something he hasn’t done.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“As much as I like LeMahieu (one of my favorite players I’ve covered), he has no place on this Rockies team. Injuries have drained his talent, and the Rockies need to start developing younger players rather than returning to their distant past.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“Murph, the setup is pretty much the same as it was last season. You can stream Rockies games or watch via your cable/satellite provider.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“Also, the Rockies have partnered with 9News, the local NBC affiliate, to simulcast 10 home games. All 10 games will be shown on KTVD channel 20, and five games will also be shown on KUSA/9News.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“These games are available for free, over-the-air (OTA) to viewers throughout the region. The 10 broadcasts will begin with the home opener on April 3, when the Rockies host the Phillies, and will continue with the eight select Friday games and one on August 1.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“If you need more information, here is the Rockies’ information page.” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
“As for radio broadcasts, you can listen to all Rockies games on KOA (850 AM/94.1 FM).” ?Patrick Saunders, Denver Post sports writer
