Colorado Rockies: 5 Predictions for 2017 Spring Training

Ryan McMahon Shines at Third Base

With Nolan Arenado helping Team USA try to win the World Baseball Classic this spring, someone other than Arenado will be manning third base for the Rockies during spring training. It’s a perfect opportunity for one of Colorado’s prospects to shine and we think that’s exactly what Ryan McMahon will do.

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There’s no question that it’s been a tough road in the minors so far for McMahon. Nolan Lees highlighted a lot of his struggles in this article. However, you have to remember that he just turned 22 years old and still has plenty of learning to do.

In Arenado’s absence, McMahon has the opportunity to not only show off the skills that make him one of Colorado’s Top 10 prospects, but also get plenty of on-the-job training to improve quickly.

While McMahon may have more of a future in the organization at first base rather than third, Arenado’s absence gives him a chance to be featured at the hot corner. While spring training fans may be bummed about missing a chance to see Arenado up close, this could very well be a blessing in disguise for the future of the franchise … if McMahon lives up to his billing.

We’re betting that he does, and that paves the way for his first call-up to the big leagues later this season.