Colorado Rockies: How the 2016 Draftees Fared Last Season

Taylor Snyder – SS – Round 13 – Pick 380

The rare Colorado player drafted by the Rockies organization, Snyder had a smooth transition into Grand Junction out of Colorado State-Pueblo. He hit .287 with an .893 OPS in 47 games. Snyder went on a tear in August and earned praise from his manager Frank Gonzales. He said his second-hole hitter for his versatility being able to play any infield position including first base.  Snyder’s versatility will help him stand out in a crowded field of shortstops in this organization.

Matt Dennis – P – Round 14 – Pick 410 

Dennis served primarily in a reliever position at Bradley University but started 14 games going 9-3 with a 3.89 ERA. The success transitioned well to Grand Junction as Dennis went 5-2 with 3.27 ERA four walks in in 33 innings. The Rockies need the relievers; Dennis gives confidence that he can do the job.

Justin Valdespina – P – Round 15 – Pick 440 

Valdespina didn’t make much of an impression in his debut for the Gran Junction Rockies. Not that he played poorly he just rarely pitched. In Rookie ball Valdespina went 3 innings and gave up three hits. That’s it. He is another right handed pitcher though. The Rockies certainly can’t have enough of those. He was a sophomore from Southern New Hampshire University who went 10-3 with a 2.89 ERA in 13 starts in 2016 with 91 strikeouts. Let’s hope those numbers continue when Valdespina gets more opportunities.