Can Rockies' Mickey Moniak replicate his 2025 success?

Mickey Moniak found success hitting at the spacious Coors Field, a solid career move for players looking to rebound.

He posted a .270/.306/.518 slash line, with 24 home runs and 68 RBIs, while reducing his strikeout rate from 27.3% (2024) to 23.9% (2025).

However, his defense fell short of Colorado's needs, as he struggled in the field, recording -23 defensive runs saved (DRS), the worst in MLB.

Colorado might use him as the primary DH, particularly against right-handed pitchers, especially now that Jake McCarthy is in the outfield.

It's challenging to be a consistent player when you're part of a platoon system

Besides his defense, Moniak struggled against left-handed pitching last season. He had a .315 slugging percentage, hitting .222 (12-for-54) with two doubles, one home runs, six RBIs, and 19 strikeouts.

He posted a wRC+ of 54 against left-handers, well below the league average, and 119 wRC+ against right-handers.

Moniak and Tyler Freeman would make an ideal platoon pair for DH, as Freeman's .291 average against left-handers in 2025 was a huge improvement from his .184 mark in 2024 with the Cleveland Guardians.

Freeman can also play the corner outfield spots and second base when needed.

Moniak signed a one-year, $4 million contract with Colorado for the 2026 season, avoiding arbitration. Although it could be inconsequential, the short-term deal following a career year might indicate the Rockies are wary of a potential decline.

This could also make him a potential trade candidate by midseason, particularly with Rockies' prospects like Cole Carrigg, Zac Veen, and Charlie Condon knocking on the doorstep.

Regardless, the Rockies maintain financial flexibility by avoiding overpayment, creating another "prove-it" opportunity for the 27-year-old.

If Moniak can replicate anything close to his career-high 45.3% hard-hit rate and 73.9% contact rate, he should be on track to match last season's production, regardless of the platoon situation.

Moniak was cleared for his Cactus League debut on Wednesday, starting at DH and batting leadoff against the Chicago Cubs.

Regression risks include his health, as he has been battling an oblique injury this spring, his road splits, and his low walk rate.

To replicate his 2025 success, he needs to maintain his plate discipline, which will lead to his barrel success, especially if he's used primarily against right-handed pitchers, which makes perfect sense for Colorado.