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Feeling strong, Parra out to reclaim outfield role By Thomas Harding / MLB.com | @harding_at_mlb | January 24th, 2017 COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- Gerardo Parra greeted with a hug and a smile that could warm a day that he termed

"mucho, mucho, mucho frio" -- even though he was carrying white-rimmed sunglasses.

"Watch this," Parra said.

Then he lifted his right foot and pogoed on the left foot for a few seconds.

"I'm jumping," he said. "My ankle is not bad anymore."

Parra signed a three-year, $27.5 million contract with the Rockies last winter to play left field, struggled at times with the

expectations that came with the deal, then was essentially grounded when he suffered a high sprain of the left ankle June

14 and missed 46 games. After he returned, he played in 39 games -- 19 of them at first base. He finished with a .253

batting average and .271 on-base percentage.

It was Parra's first year as a free-agent signee and the first time he had to go to the disabled list in an eight-season career.

Those are firsts he didn't celebrate this offseason.

"It was not easy for me, but that's past," Parra said during a Winter Caravan stop at the Rockies Dugout Store in Colorado

Springs. "That's last year. Right now I feel 100 percent. I want to be 100 percent for my team."

MEDIA CLIPS – January 25, 2017

http://m.mlb.com/player/467827/gerardo-parra

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Parra, who turns 30 on May 6, simply wants to reset and forget.

Parra's social-media accounts have been full of workout footage, whether it's strength and balance exercises or hitting in

the cage. He plans to play for Venezuela in the World Baseball Classic this spring. He also has his intentions on

reclaiming his spot in the outfield in 2017.

The Rockies didn't exactly suffer in Parra's absence. David Dahl, a former top Draft pick, took advantage of the chance

that Parra's absence gave him by hitting .315 with seven home runs and 24 RBIs in 63 games. Raimel Tapia, another top

prospect, appeared in 22 games and hit .263. Throw in established stars Charlie Blackmon in center and Carlos

Gonzalez in right, and the Major League roster has five left-handed-hitting outfielders, with Jordan Patterson (who also

plays first base) another lefty.

Whether it's an embarrassment of riches or an unwieldy crowd is up for interpretation. And the Rockies added outfield

competition by signing right-handed-hitting veteran Chris Denorfia, who played for new Rockies manager Bud Black for

five seasons with the Padres. Lefty-hitting utility man Alexi Amarista, another ex-Padre, can play the outfield and middle

infield.

But Parra is out to show he can be as essential as he was believed to be when Rockies general manager Jeff Bridich

signed him. Parra was coming off a .291/.328/.452 season with the Brewers and Orioles in 2015. Despite his struggles

reaching base last season (nine walks in 381 plate appearances), Parra was second in the National League with 20

doubles at the time of the injury, which occurred when he and shortstop Trevor Story collided in shallow left field while

chasing a fly ball.

The Rockies have not made a deal to reduce the number of outfielders in general or lefty batters specifically. The $19.5

million left on Parra's contract would make him tough to trade anyhow, but Bridich has repeatedly expressed confidence in

Parra bouncing back. And Parra believes him.

"I've talked to Jeff, yes, and my confidence is 100 percent," Parra said. "I know Tapia is a great player. I know Dahl is a

great player. Everybody on the team is a great player. It's a hard situation for the manager, for the GM, but the big point is

I feel I can help the team make the playoffs."

The Rockies also signed right-handed-hitting Ian Desmond -- who played shortstop for seven seasons with the Nationals

and spent last season in the outfield with the Rangers -- to play first base at the start of a five-year, $70 million contract.

http://m.mlb.com/player/621311/david-dahlhttp://m.mlb.com/player/606132/raimel-tapiahttp://m.mlb.com/prospects/2016?list=colhttp://m.mlb.com/prospects/2016?list=colhttp://m.mlb.com/player/453568/charlie-blackmonhttp://m.mlb.com/player/471865/carlos-gonzalezhttp://m.mlb.com/player/471865/carlos-gonzalezhttp://m.mlb.com/player/641958/jordan-pattersonhttp://m.mlb.com/player/456121/chris-denorfiahttp://m.mlb.com/player/506560/alexi-amaristahttp://m.mlb.com/player/596115/trevor-storyhttp://m.mlb.com/player/435622/ian-desmond

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There's always the possibility of playing Parra some at first base in matchup situations if he's not receiving playing time in

the outfield. But he isn't entertaining that Plan B.

Parra heads into 2017 slightly lighter. Some have theorized that his heavily muscled legs have slowed him somewhat.

Parra hasn't magically thinned out his legs, but he has concentrated more on speed, explosion and reaction.

"I don't want to play first base. ... Last year, I played first base because I couldn't run," Parra said. "I love playing my

outfield. I think I help my team more in the outfield."

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2017 Colorado Rockies single game tickets go on sale to public Thursday Fans looking to buy Opening Day tickets must register for a chance to purchase a limited number of seats By Jeff Bailey / Denver Post | January 24th, 2017 Baseball is almost back as Rockies pitchers and catchers will report to spring training on Feb. 13 in Scottsdale. The first

full team workout for the team is scheduled for Feb. 20. The season is drawing near in Denver as well. Rockies fans can

purchase single game tickets on the club’s website on Thursday, Jan. 26 at 10 a.m.

If you are looking for tickets for Opening Day on April 7, the Chicago Cubs on May 8-10 or fireworks games on July 3-4,

you will have to register online for the opportunity to purchase a limited number of face value tickets.

The registration period runs through Jan. 31 and a random drawing will be conducted by the Rockies on Feb. 1 to

determine the drawing winners. Tickets will be available to the drawing winners on a first-come, first-serve basis. More

information on the registration process can be found here.

The club is also offering single game tickets to fans who are heading to spring training at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick.

Tickets can be purchased on the Rockies’ website.

http://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/ticketing/singlegame.jsp?c_id=col&affiliateId=DC-9419194-109096909954-124630834-1042769554http://m.mlb.com/col/tickets/info/ticket-opportunityhttp://m.mlb.com/rockies/tickets/spring

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Colorado Rockies 2017 promotional giveaways, an annotated list Here are the games you need to get tickets to in order to get the best swag By Adam Peterson / Purple Row | January 25th, 2017

Every year Major League Baseball teams try to juice attendance at certain games by luring them to games with various

prizes and trinkets, and the Colorado Rockies are no exception. On Wednesday they revealed their promotional

giveaway schedule and there are some gems to behold/be had. Most of us can’t make it to every game, so how do we

plan which games to attend to obtain the best giveaways?

This is the type of hard hitting analysis that Purple Row was created to give. This list (in no particular order) doesn’t

include Coors Field staples like Weather and Science Day (Thursday, April 27) or Bark at the Park (Wednesday, August

16) because those are days where you bring something to the stadium, rather than receive something.

The Best of the Best

Friday, June 16: Jon Gray Hair Hat

Alas, there is no picture of this yet, but that’s probably because it would be redundant—you already know you want one.

What better way to show your love for the budding Rockies ace than to rock a hat with his faux locks flowing out? This

would also be a bonus for the follicly challenged among us, so expect to see Connor trying to snag an extra one.

Saturday, May 27: Nolan Arenado Jersey

Sports jerseys are expensive and, besides that, they tend to date themselves too quickly (/stares forlornly at Felipe

Paulino jersey). But if you can snag a jersey of one of the best players in baseball, a potential future hall of famer, at no

cost and see a baseball game at the same time? I’m surprised this game isn’t already sold out! It might be the only way to

drown out the Cardinal-red that will surely take over the stadium that day.

Saturday, April 8: DJ LeMahieu NL Batting Champion Bobblehead

Revisit the controversy with a bobblehead of beloved expectation-defier DJ LeMahieu with his .348 batting average on

the base. Will it look like DJ? Do bobbleheads ever? That’s not the point. The point is it’s the perfect addition to any work

desk and it’ll help you immortalize a number which is sure to go down in Rockies lore for ages to come.

http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/colorado-rockieshttp://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/schedule/promotions.jsp?c_id=col&partnerId=ed-11113325-963004203http://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/schedule/promotions.jsp?c_id=col&partnerId=ed-11113325-963004203http://www.purplerow.com/2017/1/24/14375396/colorado-rockies-2017-promotional-schedule-nolan-arenado-bobblehead-jon-gray-hair-hathttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/33108/felipe-paulinohttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/33108/felipe-paulinohttp://www.sportingnews.com/mlb/news/dj-lemahieu-batting-title-sat-bench-rockies-nationals-daniel-murphy-ted-williams-1941/cdrhxmskhpj71fxizi8gfez57http://www.purplerow.com/2016/11/17/13647236/colorado-rockies-dj-lemahieu-ranking-2016

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Friday, April 7: 2017 Magnet Schedule

Sunday, October 1: Fan Appreciation Day

It is my assertion that the two best days to go to the stadium are the first and last games of the season. Of course it

means more if you can make it to more games in between, but getting to see the stadium and the city wake up from a

long winter’s nap is a party like no other. The Magnet Schedule is just a bonus to help prove you were there.

And Bobby DeMuro got it right last year when he said there is something special about the last game of the season.

Even in years where the Rockies have done poorly, it’s fun to get to say goodbye to the team and the stadium before

winter sets in. Besides, the Rockies and Dodgers will be battling to settle the NL West crownthis year, so you’ve got to

be there!

Monday, July 3 and Tuesday, July 4: Fireworks Night

I know some people are partial to bonfires at the cabin or long days at the lake for their Independence Day festivities, but

I’m not sure anything beats a baseball game with a post-game fireworks show. And the Rockies put on one of the best

public fireworks displays I’ve ever seen. Really, get your tickets now.

Saturday, July 22: Adam Ottavino STAR WARS Bobblehead

Death, taxes, and Star Wars Night at a baseball stadium. Over the past two years Carlos Gonzalez and Charlie

Blackmon have gotten the Star Wars Bobblehead treatment and, despite what you may think, they are pretty good.

Friday, September 29: 2018 Colorado Rockies Magnet Schedule & Fan Appreciation Postgame Fireworks

Two promotions for the price of one, folks. Can’t beat that. And don’t sleep on the magnet schedule. What better way to

keep your fanbase excited throughout the winter than to give them a schedule for the upcoming season to put on their

fridge!

Saturday, July 8: Marvel Super Heroes Day and Bobblehead

Just when you thought you were safe from the world of extended universes, Marvel is now invading the sporting arenas!

The nerds really are taking over...

http://www.purplerow.com/2016/1/12/10753026/colorado-rockies-2016-schedule-promotional-days-giveaways-best-to-worsthttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/los-angeles-dodgershttps://twitter.com/purplerowBK/status/776105563935510528http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31379/carlos-gonzalezhttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/129414/charlie-blackmonhttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/129414/charlie-blackmon

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Honestly, this would probably be a fun game to bring along a younger relative, and, as we’ve established, everybody

loves a bobblehead.

Standard Fare

Sunday, April 9: Rockies Hooded Henley

It’s a nice thought, but outdoor April baseball in Denver could require a heck of a lot more layering than a mere Henley.

Monday, April 10: $1 Hot Dog

Unlike hot dog boy Connor and hot dog boy Bobby, I’m ambivalent towards hot dogs. Sure, they are the perfect ballpark

sandwich, but you only get one for the $1 coupon, and it’s pretty small anyway. But in case you miss this one, they also

have the giveaway on Thursday, May 11, Wednesday, June 21, Monday, July 17, Wednesday, August 2, and Tuesday

August 29. Go nuts.

Friday, July 21: Rockies T-Shirt

The way to anyone’s heart is through free food and free t-shirts. Why do you think everyone loves college so much? If you

know where to look you can find ‘em anywhere!

Sunday, August 6: Faith Day postgame concert by Newsboys

Postgame concerts seem to be coming more and more popular around baseball, so if you’re interested in getting two

entertainments for the price of one, all you’ll have to do is endure a game against the Phillies in the August heat.

Sunday, May 7: Rockies Rookies Run the Bases

Sunday, September 17: All Kids Run the Bases (Postgame Event)

If you’ve never seen a bunch of toddlers and grade school kids patiently wait their turn to sprint around the bases of a big

league diamond you’ve missed out on one of the truest expressions of joy you can witness. And, if you are a parent, it’s a

great way to get your children to wear themselves out before heading home. Everybody wins!

http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/philadelphia-phillies

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Sunday, August 20: Rockies Baseball Cap

Because we all need a hat to wear to mow the lawn or paint the living room.

Thursday, June 22: 2017 Colorado Rockies Team Poster

Will it be a good year to have the team poster or another one where it’ll end up bent and crushed before you get home

anyway so why bother keeping it? At least your eight-year-old cousin would appreciate it when you forget to get him a

birthday present next month.

Strange and Whimsical

Sunday, June 18: Father’s Day BBQ Spatula

Apparently Father’s Day weekend needs some attendance boost because there are giveaways every day of this

weekend. If you ever wanted to imprint your burger with the Rockies logo, this free ballpark giveaway will probably

disappoint you but will still look pretty cool hanging off the grill.

Sunday, July 9: Military Appreciation Day BBQ Apron

Might as well complete the set.

Saturday, August 5: Baseball Card Special Edition Pack

Baseball cards were once the preferred currency of neighborhood kids across the country. Now they just tend to

accumulate in random places until you stumble upon them years later and ask yourself, “Why do I still have these Tyler

Colvin cards?” Though, if this really is the year the Rockies break through to contention again, it could be a fun collector’s

item.

Saturday, June 17: MLB Play Ball Weekend: Plastic Bat and Ball Set

Passing on the love of baseball to the next generation is literally why the game is still around. That’s why putting this

promo on Father’s Day Weekend is actually pretty brilliant and makes me want to get out to this game to procure one for

my own little player to be named later.

http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31599/tyler-colvinhttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31599/tyler-colvin

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Friday, April 21: Earth Day T-Shirt

Never pass up a free t-shirt, folks. Especially one that can help fight recyclops.

Sunday, July 23: Lunch Cooler Bag

When I was in grade school I always brought my lunch in a paper bag because I was notorious for losing things

everywhere I went; one time I came home from school without shoes, for some reason. Needless to say, I could never be

trusted with something like a cool lunch box. But if we had gotten some at a game for free, I’d like to think my parents

would risk it.

Sunday, May 14: Mother’s Day Tote Bag (presented by Chick-fil-a)

Unless that bag has a sandwich in it or you forgot to get your mom a gift (which, you’re probably bringing her to this

baseball game), why bother?

Tuesday, June 6: LED Light Bulb (exit giveaway)

If this game wasn’t against the defending American League champion, it would probably be last. It also gets a bump

because I am fascinated by the idea of how an “exit giveaway” would work. Can you imagine the dad-jokes if they lose?

Dad: Turn out the lights, the party’s over.

You: Oh no...

Dad: Really wasn’t a bright showing, was it?

You: Please stop...

Dad: They really extinguished that rally, huh?

You: I’m putting myself up for adoption.

Saturday, April 22: Tote Bag

This one doesn’t even offer the hope of a delicious chicken sandwich inside. Pass.

http://www.nbc.com/the-office/video/shareholder-meeting/n21874

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Colorado Rockies prospect Antonio Senzatela looks to rebound after injury riddled season Purple Row Prospect No. 10, pitcher Antonio Senzatela By Jeff Aberle / Purple Row | January 25th, 2017

10. Antonio Senzatela (802 points, 39 ballots)

The good news is that Antonio Senzatela has been effective at every minor league level so far in his career. The bad

news is that he didn’t get much of a chance to be effective in 2016. The just-turned 22-year-old righty starter signed for

$250,000 with the Rockies in 2011 and he’s steadily risen up the minor league ladder since. His best season occurred in

2015 when he won the California League pitcher of the year award. In 154 innings over 26 starts with the High-A Modesto

Nuts, Senzatela had a 2.51 ERA with a 1.07 WHIP, 8.4 K/9, and 1.9 BB/9. As such, expectations were high for Senzatela

as he made his way up to Double-A Hartford.

Midseason Rank: 8

High Ballot: 5

Mode Ballot: 9

Future Value: 45+, MLB back-end starter or set-up man

Contract Status: 2011 amateur free agent (VZ), 40 man roster, two options remaining

MLB ETA: 2018

When he was on the mound for Hartford, Senzatela lived up to those expectations. In 34 2/3 innings over seven starts

(two of which were abbreviated by injuries), Senzatela had a sparkling 1.82 ERA for the Yard Goats, paired with a 1.04

WHIP, 7.0 K/9, and 2.3 BB/9 against competition that was on average 3.5 years older than him. Unfortunately, those are

all the innings Senzatela threw in 2016 due to two separate bouts with shoulder inflammation that put him on the DL, once

for just over a month and the other time for good in mid-June. That’s obviously a cause for concern given that his prospect

status is very tied to a plus fastball.

For more on Senzatela, check out this 2016 preseason profile of him by Bobby DeMuro.

Opinions on Senzatela among prospect writers seem to depend on how they feel his secondary stuff will play at the major

league level.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.cgi?id=senzat000anthttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/colorado-rockieshttp://www.purplerow.com/2016/3/31/11335262/colorado-rockies-prospect-antonio-senzatela-minors-donny-baarns-tyler-maun-milb-spring-training

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Baseball Prospectus was the most bullish on Senzatela, recently rating him seventh in the system:

The Good: Senzatela has a plus-plus fastball that he can dial up to 97 and will show good east-west life down in the

zone. It could be a swing-and-miss pitch for him if the command tightens up due to the deception in his delivery. His slider

flashes plus with late two-plane break in the mid-80s. He is a strike thrower who will go after hitters. He’s able to find a

little extra velocity and stuff when he runs into trouble.

The Bad: Senzatela had a bout of shoulder soreness early in the season and then didn’t pitch at all in the second half.

That’s a pretty big red flag. His fastball velocity—and the stuff more generally—didn’t hold up well past 50 pitches and

lacks plane. Batters seems more comfortable against the heater than you’d expect. His change is firm and acts like a

slower fastball. Will sneak a curve for a strike now and again, but he casts it in order to spot. Offering can bleed into the

slider at times and both can get a little soft and slurvy. Arm action can be a bit mechanical and stiff, and his uphill delivery

has some effort, leading him to overthrow at times. So yeah, it’s a fringy command profile.

The Risks: He’s an undersized pitcher with a firm change and now some durability questions as well. Even if he’s

healthy, might be bound for the bullpen.

MLB.com bumped Senzatela up to eighth in the system from 12th in their current list despite his injuries:

Senzatela has an interesting fastball package with velocity, plane and command. He works at 92-95 mph and can reach

back for 98 with modest life, and his heater plays up because he locates it with precision and uses his high-three-quarters

arm slot to throw downhill. The development of his secondary pitches will determine whether he can become more than a

back-of-the-rotation starter.

Senzatela's second-best offering is a changeup that ranges from 45-55 on the 20-80 scouting scale. He never had much

luck throwing a curveball and started missing more bats last year when he switched to a slider that also shows flashes of

becoming a solid pitch but lacks consistency. He helps his cause by throwing strikes and keeping the ball down in the

zone.

Meanwhile, Eric Longenhagen of FanGraphs didn’t even rank Senzatela among his top 24 Rockies prospects,

consigning him to the “other prospects of note” section:

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=31006http://m.mlb.com/prospects/2016?list=colhttp://www.fangraphs.com/blogs/top-24-prospects-colorado-rockies/

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His fastball/slider combination brought him to Double-A by age-21 but Senzatela lost most of 2016 to shoulder

inflammation. Many considered him a future reliever prior to the injury, an opinion reinforced by the risk-averse nature of

evaluators who’d cash in Senzatela as a middle reliever as soon as possible.

Finally, John Sickels of Minor League Ball placed Senzatela 16th in his top 20:

Season cut short by sore shoulder; when healthy, throws fastball up to 97 with a good slider and workable change-up but

lots of questions about health/durability/future role; watch for spring reports closely.

When Senzatela has pitched, he's been very good, but the injuries he had this season have introduced more risk into the

profile that wasn't as evident before. At this point, it seems likely that Senzatela will repeat in Double-A in 2017 with the

earliest likely MLB debut occurring in 2018. Senzatela is already on the 40 man roster and used his first minor league

option in 2016, so the Rockies have an incentive to push the big righty towards the Show if they need rotation help. Given

the opinion of the scouts above, Senzatela might be a good candidate to make his debut as a reliever as well.

The fact that Senzatela maintained his level of performance at the tough Double-A level this year continued to answer the

questions I've had about his prospect status at every step of the way. I will say that I did dock him for the injury and role

risk when I ranked Senzatela 11th on my personal ballot and gave him a 45+ Future Value as a back-end starter or set-up

man.

http://www.minorleagueball.com/2017/1/20/14336574/colorado-rockies-top-20-prospects-for-2017

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Colorado Rockies offseason probably isn’t over With Spring Training in sight, Jeff Bridich isn’t done improving the Rockies By Ryan Schoppe / Purple Row | January 25th, 2017

The Colorado Rockies offseason has been full of surprises. They shocked the baseball world by signing “first

baseman” Ian Desmond during the Winter Meetings, a move no one saw coming, and then followed it up by sneaking

the signing of Mike Dunn past everyone until the day that he was going to be officially announced as a Rockie.

While there has been a few other minor moves made, like the signing of Alexi Amarista to replace Daniel Descalso,

the Rockies offseason plans in some way feel unfinished. Whether it’s a trade to free up an outfield spot for Desmond

followed up by the signing of more traditional first baseman, or continuing to bolster a bullpen that had its struggles last

season, many feel that Jeff Bridich still has some work to do this offseason.

The good news is it doesn’t appear that Bridich is done. While it’s easy to look at a calendar and see that there is less

than three weeks left till the Rockies catchers and pitchers report, and then assume that the Rockies roster is final, that

doesn’t appear to be the case.

A couple of weeks ago, Thomas Harding reported that the Rockies could still make some moves, mainly in the

bullpen, before Spring Training. One of the names mentioned was Greg Holland, who the Rockies have been connected

to for the past month. That connection grew even stronger when the Rockies were rumored to be one of three finalists for

Hollands’ services.

Even if the Rockies fail to sign Holland, there are still quite a few quality bullpen pieces available for the Rockies to sign

this late in the offseason. Joe Blanton, Yusmeiro Petit, and Sergio Romo are just a few of the veteran relievers who are

surprisingly still looking for a contract this offseason.

The Rockies could also take advantage of Chris Carter’s market not materializing and signing him to provide right-handed

power off the bench as well as being a solid first base back-up in the event that Desmond is needed to play somewhere

else on the diamond.

http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/colorado-rockieshttp://www.purplerow.com/2016/12/7/13869536/colorado-rockies-sign-ian-desmond-mlb-free-agencyhttp://www.purplerow.com/2016/12/7/13869536/colorado-rockies-sign-ian-desmond-mlb-free-agencyhttp://www.purplerow.com/2016/12/15/13967800/colorado-rockies-sign-mike-dunn-free-agent-mark-trumbo-edwin-encarnacionhttp://www.purplerow.com/2016/12/15/13967800/colorado-rockies-sign-mike-dunn-free-agent-mark-trumbo-edwin-encarnacionhttp://www.purplerow.com/2016/12/26/14082602/colorado-rockies-alexi-amarista-free-agent-contract-mlbhttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/70714/daniel-descalsohttp://m.rockies.mlb.com/news/article/213067656/rockies-could-make-move-to-strengthen-bullpen/http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/112599/greg-hollandhttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/65/joe-blantonhttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/331/yusmeiro-petithttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/33919/sergio-romo

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A trade seems unlikely at this point, though anything is possible. Unless someone meets the justifiably high asking price

for Charlie Blackmon, the Rockies seem intent to wait and see how things go during the season before either dealing

their veterans for more young pieces or pushing their own chips in in an attempt to compete this year.

Continuing to work deep into the offseason is not a new phenomenon for Jeff Bridich. Last year’s biggest offseason move

didn’t happen until January 28, when Bridich packaged Corey Dickerson and Kevin Padlo in a trade to the Tampa Bay

Rays for Jake McGee and German Marquez. While it will be tough for him to match the splash that he made at this

offseason’s Winter Meetings, expecting another move or two from Brdich at this point may be wise.

http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/129414/charlie-blackmonhttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/188839/corey-dickersonhttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/tampa-bay-rayshttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/teams/tampa-bay-rayshttp://www.sbnation.com/mlb/players/31730/jake-mcgee

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Tony Wolters Looking to Simplify His Game for Rockies in 2017 By Kevin Henry / Rox Pile | January 25th, 2017

For Colorado Rockies catcher Tony Wolters, it’s been a crazy 11 months. Now, with a completely different focus heading

into the season, the 24-year-old catcher is looking to make things simple, whether he’s at the plate or behind it.

“My focus is to simplify the game. It will make me relax when I simplify things,” Wolters said. I’m really working on

simplifying my swing, catching and my thought process. When I simplify, I can think. You’re always working on things.

Baseball is hard but simplifying the game is a key for me.”

On Monday, Wolters was in Golden as part of the Rockies Caravan, joining teammates Chad Bettis and DJ

LeMahieu on the fan-centered tour. Flash back a year ago and Wolters was still with the Cleveland Indians, trying to find

his place. In mid-February, that changed when the Rockies claimed him off waivers from Cleveland. Now, Wolters is

competing with Tom Murphy for the Opening Day starting role behind the plate.

In his first Major League season, Wolters hit .259 in 230 plate appearances. More than statistics, however, Wolters

believes the experience he gained last season will pay dividends in 2017.

“I didn’t know what playing in the big leagues was,” Wolters said. “I had a picture in my head, but it wasn’t the exact

picture. Now I can picture it. We’re going to L.A.? We’re going to Cincinnati? I can picture the field. I can picture myself

playing there. That experience will pay off and make me feel more comfortable on the field. That will help me play better

as well.”

Despite entering this spring with a new team and new focus, Wolters said he didn’t change his offseason approach.

“I didn’t change my offseason,” Wolters said. “I’ve been working at the facility in Arizona. I usually work five days a week

and I didn’t change anything this year. I probably took a little more time on my legs but, other than that, no changes. I feel

like I’m in a good spot. My swing feels good. I’ve been doing catching drills with all the catchers. I feel like my body is in a

really good spot. I’m excited to get the season going.”

Excitement was one of the key elements in the room during the Rockies Caravan stop in Golden. Wolters can feel it, but

insists it doesn’t add any pressure.

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“I think everyone is so excited for the season. Front office, team, everyone is ready to get after it. It’s going to be a fun and

exciting year,” Wolters said. “There’s no pressure. Our team is so close-knit with each other so our teammates take that

off each other. They make it very comfortable. There’s an urgency. It’s like, ‘Hey, let’s go. We’re winning so get on the

train.’ That’s the atmosphere. Everyone’s on board. Everyone talks to each other and we’re going to take advantage of it.”

Wolters know the potential of this team and also knows the positive predictions that are out there for the Rockies in

2017. He said he and his teammates are ready to embrace those predictions.

“Last year, we were disappointed. We want to win every game,” Wolters said. “We have the potential to be in the playoffs

and be in the World Series and we’re really excited for that. Our team is very close. Everyone was talking to each other

after the season and everyone is expecting to win this year.”

http://calltothepen.com/2017/01/23/mlb-ranking-the-teams-that-will-improve-the-most-in-2017/

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Colorado Rockies: David Dahl’s Climb Through the Minors By Trysten Garcia / Rox Pile | January 25th, 2017

David Dahl was selected 10th overall in the 2012 MLB Draft by the Colorado Rockies. Six players drafted in the top 10

reached the Majors before Dahl, and three selected after have been to the All-Star Game. However, the first-round pick made

the most of his time in the minors.

Dahl spent his first year after high school playing rookie ball for the Grand Junction Rockies. An impressive first season resulted

in Pioneer League MVP honors and a promotion to Asheville at season’s end. A torn hamstring limited Dahl to just 10 games in

2013, but it sparked a sense of urgency as he continued to grow as player. After two shortened seasons in the minors, Dahl

spent the entire 2014 season between Single-A Asheville and Modesto. He proved to be patient and consistent at the plate, as

well as an impressive glove in the field. He also showed a level of toughness and determination which was put to the test in his

next stop along the way.

Five players drafted ahead of Dahl were contributing at the Major League level in 2015. While playing in a game for the Rockies

Double-A affiliate, Dahl collided with a teammate in the outfield and ruptured his spleen. Instead of missing the majority of yet

another season, he opted to remove his spleen in an attempt to get back on the field as soon as possible.

After another challenging season, Dahl was rewarded with an invitation to Spring Training as a non-roster invite. He began the

2016 season in Double-A, but quickly earned a promotion to Triple-A after just 76 games. In his final step before making it to the

big leagues, Dahl recorded a ridiculous .484 batting average over 16 games. On July 25, David Dahl made his debut for the

Rockies and became a permanent fixture in the lineup. He went on to play in 63 games and recorded a .315 average. He also

proved to be a consistent hitter and played with the same intensity that cost him a season and a spleen.

David Dahl’s time in the minors was anything but ideal, but it proved a necessary point. Not every player drafted early in the first

round needs to take the “fast track” to the majors. Even more importantly, Dahl is still with the team that drafted him; which is not

the case for the three players drafted ahead of him. The Rockies took their time with the big-time prospect hoping he would turn

in to a big-time player. It remains to be seen whether or not the plan will pay off, but the future looks bright for the former Oak

Mountain High School star.

The future also looks bright for other Rockies prospects. Dahl’s trip through the minors serves as a reminder of the highs and

lows any big league hopeful can expect.

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Colorado Rockies Rumors: Update on Free Agent Greg Holland By Kevin Henry / Rox Pile | January 24th, 2017

Could the Colorado Rockies still be in the mix for free agent reliever Greg Holland? According to published reports, it’s

very possible.

On Monday evening, Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports tweeted that the Rockies “may be” one of three teams in the final

mix for Holland’s services. The others are the Washington Nationals and a mystery team, Heyman says.

The Rockies and Holland were first linked together roughly three weeks ago when BSNDenver.com reported Colorado

had offered a long-term deal to the right-hander who just turned 31. He has a career mark of 18-12 with a 2.42 ERA and

145 saves, all with the Kansas City Royals from 2010-2015.

Holland was an All-Star for the Royals in 2013 and 2014, totaling 93 saves during that span and holding his ERA until

1.50. During the 2014 postseason, Holland was virtually untouchable, posting a 0.82 ERA in 11 games, including three

shutout innings in the World Series.

He last pitched for the Royals in 2015, posting a 3.83 ERA as he fought through pain from what is believed to be a torn

ligament he suffered late in the summer. Holland underwent Tommy John surgery in October of 2015 and was out for the

2016 season.

Holland would be a boost for Colorado’s bullpen, which has only signed left-hander Mike Dunn in the offseason in an

effort to strengthen one of the team’s biggest weaknesses from 2016.

If the Rockies are indeed in the mix for Holland, it will be some time before they know a final answer. Heyman also

tweeted that Holland is in the Dominican Republic, attending the funeral of Royals teammate Yordano Ventura, who

was killed in a car accident on Saturday night.

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As Rockies caravan across Colorado, optimism for Rocktober is real By Will Peterson / Mile High Sports | January 24th, 2017

It doesn’t feel like summer outside.

Heck, in late January, it doesn’t even feel like spring.

We’re still firmly in the doldrums of winter.

And without the Broncos going on a playoff run, or even playing in a playoff game, the sports clock has started to tick by

slower than ever.

Yes, the Nuggets are an exciting team who will compete for a playoff spot. But the Avalanche are having a brutal year, CU

hoops can’t crack the Pac-12 win column and CSU basketball is just a middle-of-the-road Mountain West team.

So, even though it doesn’t feel like summer, it’s fun to start thinking about it.

Specifically, your Colorado Rockies.

I don’t say that sarcastically, either.

The party deck will be bumpin’ and the beers will be flowin’ as always, but for the first time in about half a decade the

product on the field will be worth keeping a close eye on.

Or at least let’s hope so.

As the Rockies are on their annual “caravan” tour around Colorado and neighboring states, it’s as good a time as ever to

recap why there’s reason to be optimistic the 2017 season could end in a playoff berth.

First, look no further than the new manager. After four incredibly uninspiring years under former high school coach (and

MLB All-Star) Walt Weiss, the Rockies made a much needed change and brought in a guy with a ton of big league

managerial experience.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/weisswa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-

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Bud Black has been the skipper for 1,362 MLB games since 2007 for the Padres, including posting an 89-win season and

a 90-win season. Yes, some of his San Diego teams recently underachieved, but the lineups he was usually handed by

management were terrible.

Offense won’t be a problem for Black in Colorado, which brings me to this… MY GOODNESS HAVE YOU SEEN THE

ROCKIES LINEUP?!

Somewhere, the Blake Street Bombers would probably tell you over a cold one, this may be the best lineup in Rockies

history.

The outfield has three potential All-Stars with veterans Carlos Gonzalez and Charlie Blackmon leading the way, followed

by (shhhh) the kid who may end up being the best of the bunch someday, David Dahl.

The infield has four potential All Stars, with mega-free agent signing Ian Desmond locking in at first, batting champ DJ

LeMahieu at second, rookie sensation Trevor Story at shortstop and, oh yeah, maybe the best all-around player in

baseball, Nolan Arenado, at third.

That’s seven position players who would not be surprises if they made the Midsummer Classic. When you really

comprehend that, it’s insane.

At catcher the opening day starter will likely be Tony Wolters, who’s scrappy at the plate, but best known for his excellent

framing techniques behind it, which should help the Rockies starters and relievers. Speaking of…

The pitchers.

It always comes down to pitching with this team, and it generally doesn’t work out, but seriously there’s hope on this front

right now.

Four of the top five starters project to return from last season. And while they weren’t superb, they were actually pretty

good. Chad Bettis, Jon Gray, Tyler Chatwood and Tyler Anderson went a combined 41-33 with an ERA right around 4.20

overall. Not bad!

The fifth starter spot is up for grabs, with Germán Márquez the early favorite. He’s a guy who’s been on the fast track to

the majors and has the team pretty excited.

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Last, and yes, least, it’s the Rockies bullpen.

This is a great unknown, but a healthy Adam Ottavino at closer along with anticipated bounce back years from Jake

McGee, Chad Qualls and Jason Motte, and the veteran presence is strong. Throw in young guns Carlos Estevez and Jeff

Hoffman (who could also be the fifth starter) and there’s plenty of hope.

With that, let’s hand out some grades.

Manager: A

Lineup: A+

Starting rotation: B+

Bullpen: B

That averages out (on a GPA scale) to a 3.65, or essentially an A- overall.

Would you look at that? It’s late January and the Rockies project to be pushing for a spot on the honor roll. In baseball

terms, that means a spot in the playoffs.

It doesn’t feel like summer outside, but it’ll be here soon enough.

And who knows? Maybe it’ll even fade into a meaningful fall with dreams of another Rocktober.

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After beating cancer, Rockies pitcher Chad Bettis is setting his sights on the season By MHS Staff / Mile High Sports | January 24th, 2017

2016 was an up-and-down year for Colorado Rockies pitcher Chad Bettis. After having his best season, Bettis was

diagnosed with testicular cancer this past November, but underwent successful surgery and is now cancer-free. Bettis

joined Eric Goodman and Les Shapiro during The Afternoon Drive on Mile High Sports Radio to discuss his battle with

cancer.

Bettis’ doctor first noticed an abnormality in November, and he subsequently had surgery the next week. The 27-year-

old is thankful his doctor was able to detect the problem before it was too late.

“It was really frightening,” said Bettis. “It was very scary. It was nice to be able to detect it early and be able to have

surgery right away and move forward through it”.

In regards to preparation for next season, Bettis stated he feels great, and is fully cleared headed into spring training in a

few weeks.

“I actually threw bullpen Friday this last week, a 25-pitch bullpen,” he said. “Everything is feeling good, and I have no

restrictions or anything like that, so we are gonna move forward through this”.

Bettis was the Rockies’ go-to pitcher last season, as he led the team in innings pitched with 186, as well as winning his

last nine starts at Coors Field after June 9.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bettich01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-

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Nick Hundley signs with the San Francisco Giants, remains in the NL West By MHS Staff / Mile High Sports | January 24th, 2017

It’s official, catcher Nick Hundley is taking his talents away from the Mile High City. He will not be going far however, as he

has opted to stay in the NL West.

On Tuesday, the San Francisco Giants announced that they had agreed to terms on a one-year deal with Hundley, which

will see him make $2 million to serve as backup to Buster Posey.

The 33-year-old Posey has spent the past two seasons with the Rockies. In 2016, he hit .260 with 10 home runs and 48

RBI in 83 games. A veteran of 746 MLB games, he is a career .250 hitter, with 72 home runs and 305 RBI. All but 50 of

his career games have come in the NL West, with either the Rockies or the San Diego Padres.

As it stands right now, the Rockies have three catchers on their 40-man roster. They are likely to go with two out of Dustin

Garneau, Tom Murphy and Tony Wolters for the 2017 season.

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Colorado Rockies still in contention to land reliever Greg Holland By MHS Staff / Mile High Sports | January 24th, 2017

After landing Ian Desmond and Mike Dunn earlier this offseason, the Colorado Rockies might have one more trick up their

sleeve prior to the start of Spring Training.

According to MLB Insider Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports, the Rockies are one of three teams still in contention to add

free agent reliever Greg Holland.

Jon Heyman things appear to be heating up for greg holland. final 3 teams may be: rockies, nats and a mystery team 5:24 PM - 23 Jan 2017 · Aventura, FL

After missing the entire 2016 campaign whilst recovering from Tommy John surgery, Holland is believed to be seeking a

two-year deal; something the Rockies may be willing to give him.

The 31-year-old Holland boasts a career 2.42 ERA, is a two-time All-Star and has recorded 145 saves. In 2015, he had

and ERA of 3.83 in 44.2 innings pitched.

If he signs with the Rockies, Holland would join Adam Ottavino and Jake McGee in the them bullpen, giving them three

relievers with extensive closing experience.

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Rockies Close To Deal With Greg Holland By Steve Adams / MLB Trade Rumors | January 25th, 2017

The Rockies are “making a big push” to sign free-agent righty Greg Holland and are believed to be close to a deal, reports Jon

Heyman of FanRag Sports (via Twitter). Colorado has long said to be interested in Holland, who has reportedly been seeking a

two-year deal with an opt-out after the first season of the contract. Holland is represented by the Boras Corporation.

The 31-year-old Holland missed all of the 2016 season as he recovered from Tommy John surgery that was performed late in

the 2015 campaign. Prior to that operation, however, he was one of the game’s top relievers and a key factor in the Royals’

return to prominence. From 2011-14, Holland tossed 256 1/3 innings of 1.86 ERA ball with 12.6 K/9 against 3.2 BB/9 with a 44.4

percent ground-ball rate. Holland racked up 113 saves in that time and anchored the Royals’ bullpen in the 2014 postseason,

throwing 15 innings and allowing one run with a 15-to-5 K/BB ratio.

A year later, when the Royals won the World Series, Holland watched from the dugout following his operation. He’d pitched to a

3.83 ERA with 9.9 K/9 and 5.2 BB/9 in 44 2/3 innings prior to going under the knife. Incredibly, at the time Holland’s injury was

reported to the public, manager Ned Yost suggested that Holland had unknowingly suffered a tear of some degree in his UCL

back in Aug. 2014, which would mean he pitched the entire 2015 campaign with a tear in the elbow. The Royals reportedly

recommended medical examination on numerous occasions, though Holland declined. Presumably, the tear was minimal in

nature at first, but it progressed to the point where it was termed a “significant” tear by the tail end of the 2015 season.

If completed, a Holland deal would be yet another step in what’s been an active offseason for the Rockies. Colorado has clearly

been operating in a win-now capacity, as evidenced by the team’s signing of Ian Desmond to a five-year, $70MM contract

(which cost them the No. 11 overall pick in the upcoming draft) and the addition of lefty Mike Dunn on a three-year, $19MM

deal.

With the Rockies, Holland would likely be the favorite to pitch the ninth inning, though he’ll presumably have to prove healthy

and effective enough to push past incumbent candidate Adam Ottavino. That duo and the newly signed Dunn will pair with

holdovers Jake McGee, Jason Motte and Chad Qualls to comprise the relief corps for first-year Rockies manager Bud Black.

Also in the mix for ’pen jobs in Denver will be lefty Chris Rusin and right-handers Jordan Lyles, Carlos Estevez and Miguel

Castro.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hollagr01.shtmlhttps://twitter.com/JonHeyman/status/824311490169733122http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/09/royals-shut-down-greg-holland.htmlhttp://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2015/09/royals-shut-down-greg-holland.htmlhttp://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/desmoia01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dunnmi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/ottavad01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mcgeeja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/motteja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/q/quallch01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rusinch01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lylesjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/estevca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/castrmi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/castrmi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-

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MLB Rumor Central: Nationals, Rockies finalists to land Greg Holland? By Alex Tekip / ESPN.com | January 25th, 2017

The Washington Nationals and Colorado Rockies "may be" among the finalists to land former Kansas City

Royals closer Greg Holland, according to FanRag Sports' Jon Heyman. Heyman notes that a mystery team is also in the

mix.

The 31-year-old Holland missed the entire 2016 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery in October 2015.

Holland posted in 3.83 ERA in 48 games with the Royals in 2015. The right-hander recorded 32 saves in 37 chances and

struck out 49 batters in 44 2/3 innings.

A two-time All-Star, Holland could fill the Nats' void at closer after Washington lost Mark Melancon to the San Francisco

Giants in free agency and failed to win over Aroldis Chapman or Kenley Jansen.

Earlier this month, Rockies GM Jeff Bridich told the Denver Post's Patrick Saunders that Holland was among the free-

agent relievers the team has "checked in" on as part of an effort to upgrade its bullpen, which had a major league-worst

5.13 ERA last season.

http://www.espn.com/mlb/team/_/name/wsh/washington-nationalshttp://www.espn.com/mlb/team/_/name/col/colorado-rockieshttp://www.espn.com/mlb/team/_/name/kc/kansas-city-royalshttp://www.espn.com/mlb/team/_/name/kc/kansas-city-royalshttp://www.espn.com/mlb/player/_/id/30945/greg-hollandhttps://twitter.com/JonHeyman/status/823687919353401346http://www.espn.com/mlb/player/_/id/29446/mark-melanconhttp://www.espn.com/mlb/team/_/name/sf/san-francisco-giantshttp://www.espn.com/mlb/team/_/name/sf/san-francisco-giantshttp://www.espn.com/mlb/player/_/id/30442/aroldis-chapmanhttp://www.espn.com/mlb/player/_/id/29630/kenley-jansenhttp://www.denverpost.com/2017/01/10/rockies-offseason-bullpen-carlos-gonzalez/

The Best of the BestFriday, June 16: Jon Gray Hair HatSaturday, May 27: Nolan Arenado JerseySaturday, April 8: DJ LeMahieu NL Batting Champion BobbleheadFriday, April 7: 2017 Magnet ScheduleSunday, October 1: Fan Appreciation DayMonday, July 3 and Tuesday, July 4: Fireworks NightSaturday, July 22: Adam Ottavino STAR WARS BobbleheadFriday, September 29: 2018 Colorado Rockies Magnet Schedule & Fan Appreciation Postgame FireworksSaturday, July 8: Marvel Super Heroes Day and Bobblehead

Standard FareSunday, April 9: Rockies Hooded HenleyMonday, April 10: $1 Hot DogFriday, July 21: Rockies T-ShirtSunday, August 6: Faith Day postgame concert by NewsboysSunday, May 7: Rockies Rookies Run the BasesSunday, September 17: All Kids Run the Bases (Postgame Event)Sunday, August 20: Rockies Baseball CapThursday, June 22: 2017 Colorado Rockies Team Poster

Strange and WhimsicalSunday, June 18: Father’s Day BBQ SpatulaSunday, July 9: Military Appreciation Day BBQ ApronSaturday, August 5: Baseball Card Special Edition PackSaturday, June 17: MLB Play Ball Weekend: Plastic Bat and Ball SetFriday, April 21: Earth Day T-ShirtSunday, July 23: Lunch Cooler BagSunday, May 14: Mother’s Day Tote Bag (presented by Chick-fil-a)Tuesday, June 6: LED Light Bulb (exit giveaway)Saturday, April 22: Tote Bag

For Colorado Rockies catcher Tony Wolters, it’s been a crazy 11 months. Now, with a completely different focus heading into the season, the 24-year-old catcher is looking to make things simple, whether he’s at the plate or behind it.David Dahl was selected 10th overall in the 2012 MLB Draft by the Colorado Rockies. Six players drafted in the top 10 reached the Majors before Dahl, and three selected after have been to the All-Star Game. However, the first-round pick made the most ...Could the Colorado Rockies still be in the mix for free agent reliever Greg Holland? According to published reports, it’s very possible.