Colorado Rockies Offseason Speculation: Part 1

Sep 14, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Jon Gray (55) reacts after being pulled against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fifth inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

Jon Gray made his long-awaited Major League debut Aug. 4 against the Seattle Mariners, giving up two runs on five hits over four innings of work. And by long-awaited, I don’t mean it took him forever; it only took him two years, yet Rockies’ fans like myself were clamoring for the 3rd overall pick since the start of the season.

Gray’s development is critical to Colorado’s success not only now, but in the future. He has the wipeout stuff — a mid-90’s fastball mixed with an absolutely filthy slider. One thing Gray needs to work on more this offseason and beyond is his changeup. If he can master that, you’re looking at a prototypical ace atop the Rockies’ rotation.

Gray struggled a bit during his first taste of the big leagues, but hey, most pitchers do! Jon finished the season with a record of 0-2, including an ERA of 5.53. Don’t let the ERA deceive you. After one bad start (7 earned runs vs. Mets), Gray’s last three starts were pretty darn good.

Over his last three starts, Gray gave up four earned runs over 15 innings — 14 strikeouts compared to just four walks.