Gerardo Parra Crowds Rockies Outfield

When the Colorado Rockies signed free agent left-handed outfielder Gerardo Parra to a 3 year deal worth $27.5 million, the vast outfield at 20th and Blake is suddenly looking crowded. The new acquisition leaves the Rockies with plenty of trading chips to play in the off-season. Carlos Gonzales will not be traded during the off-season according to Bridich, leaving All Star Charlie Blackmon and Corey Dickerson the odd men out.

Blackmon turned into a top leadoff hitter in the NL last year with his new-found base stealing abilities and power at the plate. A solid leadoff man is a must have in the National League, especially one that can move around the bags and drive in runs. He is under club control for the next few years, plus he has the defensive skills to play any outfield position.

Dickerson has suffered more than his fair share of injuries during the last few years, but when healthy he swings a massive hammer at the plate. With consistent playing time he could turn into one of the best left-handed hitters in the NL, plus he has the most club control time left of any aforementioned outfielders which is a huge plus for teams looking to acquire younger players.

The outfield market is hot right now and I think the Rockies will trade Dickerson or Blackmon in attempts to bolster their weak rotation. However, I wouldn’t expect much in return for either one except maybe a solid bullpen addition. The Rockies have some pitchers like Chad Bettis from last year returning that showed promise. Without a solid number one pitching every five days the starting rotation is looking gloomy.

Trading for quality starting pitchers can be an expensive proposition, but one the Rockies must look into given their poor history on developing pitching in its farm system. Colorado does seem to have a great repertoire developing defensive infielders and outfielders with big bats. Going forward, I think the Rockies need to keep developing quality position players they can use to trade for quality starting pitching.