Colorado Rockies: 3 Things You Should Know on March 29

Let’s look at three bits and pieces of news of interest to Colorado Rockies fans.

Ryan Hanigan Joins the Party

On Tuesday, the Colorado Rockies reportedly signed recently released veteran catcher Ryan Hanigan. Hanigan spent his first seven years in the league with the Cincinnati Reds and served as the everyday catcher. He has never been known as a power threat at the plate, but he did enjoy his best season in 2010, batting .300 with five home runs and 40 RBI.

Hanigan joins a Rockies club with a few question marks at the catcher position. Last week the team was reportedly linked to Derek Norris, so the signing of another veteran backstop comes as no surprise. He will compete with Dustin Garneau and Anthony Bemboom to split time with presumptive starter Tony Wolters until Tom Murphy returns from injury.

Jeff Bridich’s Crazy Idea

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Our friends over at BSNDenver.com took a look at Rockies GM Jeff Bridich’s approach to the offseason and what it means for the team moving forward in this piece. Bridich sees players as a fit for the team based on overall value, not just ability to play one position or do one thing well.

The primary example is newly acquired first baseman Ian Desmond, who has been pegged as the team’s starter moving forward, but offers much more than an everyday glove at first. The article mentions former players and current players who can offer value all around. Many players on the roster have bought in to the idea of providing value across the board and are energized by the new outlook on the roster as a whole.

Chris Rusin‘s Timetable

Chris Rusin had enjoyed a nice Spring Training until his recent injury, and it’s been announced he will not be ready for Opening Day. Manager Bud Black mentioned Rusin as a candidate for the starting rotation before Chad Bettis was placed on the 60-day disabled list, but he was removed from the conversation and viewed solely as a candidate for the bullpen. Now his spot on the team is not so solid, and a couple of new faces have a greater chance of making the Opening Day roster.

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Harrison Musgrave and Antonio Senzatela will benefit most from Rusin’s injury, as one is set to enter the rotation while the other may take a spot in the bullpen. As the season draws closer, injuries are becoming frustrating for the team, but offer chances for fresh faces as well.