The Colorado Rockies who shouldn’t be traded at the deadline

Ian Desmond

OK, OK, hear me out on this one. I know plenty of Rockies fans are ready to be rid of the player who could arguably be the worst signing ever by Bridich but there are some other factors to consider here.

First, it would likely very difficult for the Rockies to find a trade partner for Desmond simply because of his contract. He is making $15 million this season and is due $15 million next season.

Second, while he is having his best season in a Rockies uniform, there is plenty of “eye testing” (and all-time low -17 DRS) with his outfield play to know that the better season is being had at the plate than in the field.

Third, there are signs that Desmond is finally shaping into the offensive player that the Rockies thought he possibly could be when he was signed to an expensive and odd contract back on December 13, 2016.

Check out this article that has been interesting statistics about Desmond’s changes at the plate and what they’re making. It includes this paragraph:

"His 44 runs, 12 home runs, and 48 RBI in 278 at-bats prorate to 95/25/95 over a full season. In addition, his underlying batted-ball data, highlighted by a 91.8 mph exit velocity and .342 xwOBA, is by far the best of his Statcast career, suggesting even further improvement in his box score production as the season progresses."

If the Rockies have stuck with Desmond this long and are just now seeing the fruits of his potential production at the plate, isn’t it worth trying to keep his bat in the lineup for one more season?

Rockies fans may cringe at the thought. However, let’s be honest … outfield options aren’t plentiful for Colorado at the moment at the higher levels. Is an experienced Desmond who is hitting well worth another season over players who have struggled to produce at the Major League level? I say yes. How about you?