Colorado Rockies: Charlie Blackmon’s number next in line for retirement

“I don’t want to lose your love, TONIGHT!!!” For the next six years, “Your Love” by The Outfield will echo throughout Coors Field by thousands of Colorado Rockies fans dressed in purple. With Wednesday’s contract announcement, Charlie Blackmon will likely be patrolling the outfield at Coors Field for the rest of his career.

Just last week, Rox Pile’s own Ben Macaluso made an excellent case for Nolan Arenado being the NEXT Colorado Rockie to have his number retired. After signing the six-year, $108 million extension, Blackmon now has the opportunity to put his number and his beard into that hallowed ring.

In Ben’s article, he ran down the list of possible candidates that may one day have their number hanging off the façade in right field. From Larry Walker, Troy Tulowitzki, Dante Bichette, and Carlos Gonzalez, they all have attributes that make them worthy except one: Longevity.

Colorado Rockies

If Charlie Blackmon plays out his entire contract, he will be 38 years old and would have played all 14 years of his career in purple pinstripes.  That would make him the second-longest tenured Rockies player behind the great #17, Todd Helton.

For those who are worried about how his stats match up against the Colorado greats, don’t be.  Since there is zero chance of catching Helton, I will provide the numbers he needs to be get to second on the all time list.

2nd place    Blackmon

Hits          1361             888

HRs           258              115

RBI          848              361

Runs         892              488

Games    1170             769

If Blackmon averages 160 hits, 25 homers, 80 RBI, and 85 runs the rest of his career, all of these second-place numbers should easily be surpassed.

Then there is this last factor. Troy Tulowitzki had his own chant. Larry Walker had “Crazy Train.” Blackmon has the whole persona. From “Your Love” to his beard to his wacky social media video clips, Chuck Nazty has become the fan favorite of the Rockies.

And remember, he is six years older than Nolan, so even if Arenado goes on to break every single record the Rockies have, he will have retired long before it will be time to retire #28.

Next: Blackmon's extension reveals Colorado's plan for the future

As long as Blackmon stays healthy and produces the next six years, #19 will up in right field where it will rightfully belong.