Colorado Rockies: What If They Held a WWE-Style Draft?

Jon Gray

Age: 24

2016 Stats: 5-4, 4.33 ERA, 103 strikeouts

In what may be a bit of a surprise, not only is Gray turning into the Colorado Rockies ace pitcher, he’s also becoming quite the fan favorite if our panel is any indication.

Gray was the second pick on three ballots and third on two others. Why?

“The Rockies have been waiting for a pitcher like him for a long time,” one voter said. “I also love how far he’s come in such a short time with the Rockies. There was a while where everyone was coming down hard on him because he hadn’t gotten a win yet. He never seemed to let it bother him and look where he is today.”

Look where he is indeed. In July, he has a 2.33 ERA, striking out 20 batters in 19.1 innings. He has eight strikeouts in three of his last four outings.

“He’s a power pitcher with a wicked slider,” one voter said. “He’s also seemed to figure out Coors Field.”

That in and of itself is worth its weight in gold. Ask any of the other so-called “franchise pitchers” for the Rockies who never figured out that secret.

Next: And the Third Overall Pick Is...