Colorado Rockies: Four big questions and bold predictions

Who will replace DJ LeMahieu at second base?

Speaking of departures to the Bronx, Colorado’s former All-Star second baseman (LeMahieu) is joining Ottavino with the Yankees. The hole left behind by LeMahieu will have to be filled, both in the lineup and in the field.

Let’s not forget that the Rockies are not only losing an All-Star defender but also a former batting champion and one of the most familiar faces at the top of the lineup. Whether he was batting second or leadoff, there are plenty of moments in his career where LeMahieu made an impact for the Rockies.

You will hear some talk about Brendan Rodgers and his chances of starting at second base when the 2019 season opens in Miami. Don’t believe them. We talked about the reasons for that in this article as well as when he might be joining the Rockies in 2019.

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With that in mind, it boils down to Garrett Hampson and Ryan McMahon to step in at second base. Certainly, there will be times when the newly signed Daniel Murphy could be playing there, but Colorado seems intent to give Hampson and McMahon the opportunity to compete for the starting nod.

Both also bring versatility to the Rockies, with Hampson able to move into the outfield if necessary and McMahon with plenty of experience everywhere in the infield outside of shortstop. Both will also likely be on the Opening Day 25-man roster, another nod to the big roles they will play in 2019.

Bold prediction: Hampson will earn the starting nod but McMahon will see plenty of time at first and second in what will be a mix-and-match right side of the infield with Murphy and Ian Desmond also in play.