Colorado Rockies Countdown: Top Five First Basemen

4 of 6

Sep 18, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Rockies first baseman Justin Morneau (33) pulls in a catch for an out in the eighth inning against the San Diego Padres at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Justin Morneau (2014-2015, fWAR 3.1)

Like Giambi before him, Justin Morneau enjoyed great success as a hitter in the American League and even won an MVP award along the way. But, once again Colorado didn’t get those prime years. Instead Colorado was receiving an aging All-Star who was fighting for his career due to concussion-related issues.

Morneau spent the first 11 seasons of his career with the Minnesota Twins and then was shipped to Pittsburgh in a deadline deal as the Pirates were pushing towards the playoffs. Proving himself serviceable, Colorado took a chance on Justin and signed him in 2014. In his first and only full season with Colorado, all Morneau did was hit for a .319 average and earn himself a National League batting title. Once a premier power hitter, Morneau only managed 17 bombs in that 2014 season but it’s fair to say Colorado got the bang for their buck.

2015 would prove to be much more difficult for Morneau and the Rockies. Morneau suffered another concussion on May 13 and ended up playing only 49 games. Morneau is currently a free agent and figures to play into a contending team’s playoff plans. Assuming the Rockies don’t resign Morneau at any point, he’ll finish his Colorado career with a .316 average.

Next: The Big Cat

Home/Colorado Rockies All-Time Lists