Can the Colorado Rockies rise from the ashes of a historic losing season? After a devastating 119-loss campaign, the worst in franchise history, the Rockies are gearing up for a transformative 2026 spring training. With a revamped front office and manager Warren Schaeffer at the helm for his first full season, the team is determined to turn things around. But here's where it gets interesting: can they rebuild fast enough to compete in a tough division? And this is the part most people miss: the Rockies' success might hinge on the performance of their new acquisitions and the development of their top prospects.
Spring Training 2026: A Fresh Start in Scottsdale
The Rockies will kick off their spring training at the state-of-the-art Salt River Fields at Talking Stick in Scottsdale, Arizona. This facility, located at 7555 N. Pima Rd., will serve as the team's hub as they prepare for the upcoming season. Here’s a breakdown of the key dates to mark on your calendar:
Key Dates to Remember:
- Feb. 12: Pitchers and catchers report, officially launching the spring training season.
- Feb. 17: The entire squad gathers for their first full workout, a pivotal moment in team-building.
- Feb. 20: The Rockies face the Diamondbacks in their first Cactus League game at Salt River Fields, starting at 1:10 p.m. MST. This game marks the beginning of their preseason journey.
- March 2: A highly anticipated matchup against the reigning World Series champion Dodgers, also at Salt River Fields (1:10 p.m.).
- March 4: The Rockies take on Team USA, participants in the World Baseball Classic, at 1:10 p.m. This game offers a unique opportunity to see international talent up close.
How to Follow the Action:
Radio Broadcasts:
Catch all the games on the 850 AM/94.1 FM KOA Rockies Radio Network. Here’s a glimpse of the schedule (all times in Denver):
- Feb. 20: vs. Diamondbacks (1 p.m. pregame/1:10 p.m. first pitch)
- Feb. 22: at Rangers (12:55/1:05)
- Feb. 24: vs. Angels (1/1:10)
- Feb. 28: vs. Royals (1/1:10)
- March 1: at Guardians (12:55/1:05)
- March 2: vs. Dodgers (1/1:10)
- March 4: vs. Team USA (1/1:10)
- March 8: vs. Guardians (2/2:10)
- March 9: at White Sox (1:55/2:05)
- March 13: vs. Rangers (2/2:10)
- March 15: at Angels (2/2:10)
- March 17: vs. Mariners (2/2:10)
- March 23: vs. Tigers (7/7:10)
TV Broadcasts:
Rockies.TV will air select games, including:
- Feb. 20: vs. Diamondbacks
- Feb. 24: vs. Angels
- Feb. 28: vs. Royals
- March 2: vs. Dodgers
- March 4: vs. Team USA
- March 8: vs. Guardians
- March 13: vs. Rangers
- March 17: vs. Mariners
- March 23: vs. Tigers
Roster Moves: Building a Competitive Team
Key Additions:
The Rockies have made strategic moves to bolster their roster:
- LHP Brennan Bernardino: An experienced lefty reliever expected to strengthen the bullpen.
- RHP Michael Lorenzen: Adds much-needed depth and experience to the starting rotation.
- RHP Pierson Ohl: Another bullpen addition to provide flexibility.
- OF Jake McCarthy: Brings athleticism and speed to all three outfield positions.
- UTL Willi Castro: A versatile switch-hitter capable of playing multiple infield and outfield positions.
- INF Edouard Julien: Offers veteran depth at second and first base.
- 1B T.J. Rumfield: Acquired from the Yankees, he’ll compete for the starting first baseman spot.
Key Departures:
Several notable players have left the team:
- LHP Austin Gomber: Signed a minor league deal with the Rangers after becoming a free agent.
- RHP German Marquez: Remains unsigned after hitting free agency.
- RHP Angel Chivilli: Traded to the Yankees, leaving a gap in the bullpen.
- 1B Michael Toglia: Non-tendered by the Rockies, now with the Reds on a minor league deal.
- OF Yanquiel Fernández: Designated for assignment and is currently a free agent.
Prospects to Watch:
The future looks bright with these top prospects:
- 1B Charlie Condon (Rockies No. 2 via MLB Pipeline): A power-hitting first baseman with high expectations.
- OF Zac Veen (No. 11): A dynamic outfielder with the potential to impact both offense and defense.
- LHP Carson Palmquist (No. 13): A left-handed pitcher with a promising arsenal.
- RHP Gabriel Hughes (No. 14): A hard-throwing right-hander poised to make an impact.
- OF Sterlin Thompson (No. 15): A versatile outfielder with a well-rounded skill set.
- LHP Welinton Herrera (No. 20): Another lefty with the potential to contribute at the major league level.
Controversial Question: Can the Rockies' New Additions and Prospects Turn the Tide?
While the Rockies have made significant roster moves, the question remains: will it be enough to compete in a highly competitive division? Some fans argue that the team still lacks a true ace in the rotation, while others believe the young prospects could surprise everyone. What do you think? Are the Rockies on the right track, or do they need to make more bold moves? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more in-depth analysis and exclusive Rockies news, sign up for the Rockies Insider at https://myaccount.denverpost.com/dp/preference. Let’s see if 2026 is the year the Rockies finally rise from the ashes!
