Colorado Rockies: Ranking the 40-Man Roster: 5-1

Number 2

Charlie Blackmon: Outfielder Points: 22 Highest Rank: 2 Lowest Rank: 9

Average, power, and speed are all important in the game of baseball. When a player can really develop any of these skills, he is a crucial player. When a player develops all three of these skills and has a serious beard to match? He is Charlie Blackmon.

Chuck Nazty has been a fan-favorite in Denver for years, but he really made a name for himself in 2016 when he exploded for power and average at the top of the Rockies lineup day-in and day-out. He is known for his outgoing personality and clubhouse shenanigans, but anyone around the team knows he is also one of the hardest workers around. He covers center field on a nightly basis in one of the largest outfields in the league, and has also improved his arm over the last few seasons.

Like Carlos Gonzalez, Blackmon’s name has been mentioned in multiple trade rumors this offseason, but the reported asking price was too high for clubs around the league. The Rockies have a pair of promising young center fielders in David Dahl and Raimel Tapia, but it remains unclear when or if they will both see full time action in center.

Blackmon could be a huge factor for the team’s success in 2017, as he could lead off again with power and average to set up an even scarier middle of the order. However, he could also take a very different path if the team does not contend as expected this season.

If Blackmon sticks around and helps the Rockies to their first offseason since 2009, his number two ranking could be well deserved. But if the team falls out of contention and is able to bring in a Tulo-esque haul at the deadline, his value could be much different in 2017.