Colorado Rockies Rumors: Jon Heyman’s Free Agent Predictions

Carlos Gonzalez was listed at #64 with a projected 1 year deal for $6.5-7 million, Gerardo Parra was 75th at 1 year for $5-6 million, and Matt Holiday was 99th with 1 year for $3 million.  Honestly, I don’t think it’s that likely that any of these three return.  Holiday hit well with the Rockies and could return as a pinch-hitter in a Jason Giambi-type role, but certainly not as a starter.

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The Rockies already declined Parra’s option so I think its pretty clear they’ll move on from him and give younger guys like David Dahl and Raimel Tapia a shot at an everyday job.  Same thing with CarGo.  He wasn’t signed for 2018 until Spring Training and after this past season I don’t see the Rockies being eager to bring him back.

CarGo’s biggest asset is his clubhouse presence and that shouldn’t be discounted, but his days as a superstar in the league appear to be over.  The Rockies might bring back one of Cargo or Holliday for their clubhouse leadership and as a veteran pinch-hitter but they won’t bring back both.  And honestly, I’m not too sure they’ll bring back either.

This isn’t just because of Dahl and Tapia, but also because of Desmond’s ability to play outfield and open up first base for McMahon.  While Desmond’s 2018 offense (.236 AVG, 22 HR, 88 RBI, 20 SB) was lackluster for first base, it looks much better coming from a corner outfielder hitting in the 7-hole.

The good thing going forward is the Rockies have a lot of options–and more young talent than available positions.  After making consecutive playoff appearances for the first time in franchise history, the future is still bright in Colorado.