MLB Power Rankings remain cautious about the Rockies ahead of Opening Day

From a national media perspective, it's difficult to be optimistic regarding the Rockies after three consecutive seasons with over 100 losses.

Colorado fired manager Bud Black on May 11th last season, following a 7-33 start, the worst 40-game start in franchise history. Warren Schaeffer took over and the team went 36-86 the rest of the way, but there was a noticeable change in atmosphere.

Colorado ponied up and has revamped its front office, now led by Paul DePodesta and GM Josh Byrnes, as they implement a new analytical approach at Coors Field.

The new front office retained Schaeffer, valuing his familiarity with the team. He was likely the best available option, as there was no need for a major splash during a rebuilding year.

They began their Rockies tenure by adding depth to the pitching staff with veteran additions Michael Lorenzen, Jose Quintana, and Tomoyuki Sugano, aiming to stabilize the starting rotation that was porous to say the least in 2025.

They also made a few trades, including acquiring OF Jake McCarthy from the Diamondbacks, LHP Brennan Bernadino from the Red Sox, and 1B TJ Rumfield from the Yankees, who all cracked the Opening Day roster.

They added veteran infielders Willi Castro, who can play multiple positions, and Edouard Julien to increase the team's lineup versatility.

While these moves might not be groundbreaking, they address a crucial area where the previous administration fell short: adding depth to a roster that isn't star-studded.

According to The Ringer, those moves were respectable and needed, but they still don't move the needle for a team that lost a franchise-record 119 games in 2025.

"All in all, the Rockies will have enough respectable pitching to avoid flirting with the 2024 White Sox’s loss record once again. They will continue to provide a fun summer baseball-viewing experience at Coors Field, but they just won’t be doing much winning at all.
"

Anthony Dabbundo, The Ringer

The article praised the young core, including Ezequiel Tovar, Jordan Beck, Hunter Goodman, and Brenton Doyle, but they remain unsure about achieving star-level status.

The Rockies are ranked last in The Ringer's MLB Preseason Power Rankings, with an over/under of 55.5 wins, and The Ringer suggests the over will be reached. After last season's struggles, the Rockies face a significant challenge this year, but the team should be much improved.