Colorado Rockies: Potential surprises on the Opening Day roster

Yency Almonte

Much like Musgrave, Almonte made his Major League debut last season and showed some flash and promise for the future.

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In 14 appearances spanning 14.2 innings, the 24-year-old right-hander sported a 1.84 ERA and struck out 14 while walking just four. In an August 7 showing against the Pittsburgh Pirates in Denver, Almonte struck out four in just two frames.

He also did well under pressure, including in his big league debut when he entered a game against the New York Mets with a three-run lead and runners on first and third. He worked his way out of the jam with a sacrifice fly and double play.

He’s also a player who has plenty of experience in the minors as a starter. Colorado has plenty of depth in their rotation but Almonte could possibly figure into a long relief role if needed.

Almonte has the potential to make a big difference in the Colorado bullpen as the season goes along. Will that be on Opening Day? It would take an injury or an extremely impressive spring for Almonte to earn his first Opening Day roster spot … but it certainly isn’t completely out of the question.