Colorado Rockies: Re-ranking Colorado’s 40-man roster

DENVER, CO – JUNE 07: Jake McGee #51 of the Colorado Rockies throws in the eighth inning against the Cleveland Indians at Coors Field on June 7, 2017 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)

15. Trevor Story

Preseason: 6

He’s hitting .224 and has 100 strikeouts in 255 plate appearances this season. Granted, he has 11 homers on the season but the sequel to the amazing Story from last year hasn’t lived up to his expectations. If he doesn’t turn things around soon, he is in danger of losing his hold on the shortstop position … and not just temporarily.

He provides a great glove for Colorado’s infield but more is needed. Will the Rockies trade at the deadline to improve the position? That’s one of the thoughts we explored in this article.

14. Ian Desmond

Preseason: 7

Colorado’s major offseason signing has played in just 57 games so far this season thanks to injuries. He’s hitting .283 at the break but has a WAR of -0.5. More is needed.

13. Jake McGee

Preseason: 18

A 2.70 ERA in 38 appearances is a vast improvement over last season. Opponents are batting .206 against him this season. McGee has been one of Colorado’s most pleasant surprises this season.

12. Carlos Gonzalez

Preseason: 5

The season-long slump that has dragged Carlos Gonzalez down throughout 2017 had CarGo batting seventh in the final game of the season’s first half. However, he did go to 2-for-4 to raise his average for July to .211. The next few days will tell a lot about his future with the team. One thing is for sure though: A resurgent CarGo would provide a spark to Colorado’s offense and fan base.

11. Tyler Chatwood

Preseason: 12

A 6-10 record and 4.42 ERA is what Chatwood owns at the break. The 10 losses are already more than he had all of last season. He’s also given up 14 homers this season after surrendering 15 all of last year. He’s still been better on the road (3.19 ERA) versus home (6.14 ERA) but it’s nowhere near the historic numbers of last season.

Could Chatwood be moved out of the rotation eventually? Could he be moved at the trade deadline? An unrestricted free agent next season, anything is possible for the 27-year-old right-hander.