Colorado Rockies 2015 Season Preview

Jun 13, 2014; San Francisco, CA, USA; Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Jorge De La Rosa (29) pitcher takes a break during the third inning as Colorado Rockies catcher Wilin Rosario (20) watches the dugout against the San Francisco Giants at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

What Might Happen In 2015

I’ll make two 2015 predictions. It’s not hedging my bets so much as it’s exemplifying just how important Tulo and CarGo’s health issues are to the Rockies.

Prediction One: Tulo and CarGo stay healthy and have relatively-full, productive seasons. If this happens – and we all hope it does – I think this team could win as many as 75 or 77 games. Tulo and CarGo completely change the lineup when they are healthy. Both are All Star caliber players and arguably the best in the league at their respective positions (again, when healthy). Can they be this year?

Let’s assume Tulo and CarGo stay healthy, and the lineup gives more firepower like what we saw Opening Day in Milwaukee.  This club can hang with almost anybody with an offense like that, and pitching that bends, but doesn’t break. 76-86. 

Prediction Two: Tulo and CarGo get injured. Again. If this happens, like it’s happened in what seems like 175 straight seasons, the Rockies are not only a team without an identity, but a rudderless club that lacks consistent firepower when they need it the most.

Dickerson, Arenado, and Morneau are outstanding players in their own right, but none can fully replace the output of Tulo and/or CarGo. The club sputters like it did last year, and the bending pitching can’t hold up the Tulo-and-CarGo-less offense. 66-96.

Now you’ve heard from me. What about you?