Three names the Rockies should consider to be their manager in 2026

Since Bud Black was dismissed several weeks ago, and multiple coaching changes were made, it would be nice to say that it has made a difference for the Colorado Rockies, at least in the short-term.

It hasn’t.

Instead, the Rockies have continued down a dark path under interim manager Warren Schaeffer, a path that has seen Colorado now officially remain on pace to record the worst season in modern Major League Baseball history.

If that happens, it won’t bode well for Schaeffer’s chances of becoming the full-time manager this winter. In fact, Schaeffer’s fate may already be sealed. Unfortunately, that’s just where the Rockies are right now.

However, whether or not Schaeffer is the answer in Colorado, it’s never too early to start speculating on other candidates who could be in the running for Colorado’s job.

So here’s three names the Rockies should at least consider when it’s time to find Black’s full-time replacement.

Gabe Kapler

The fiery Kapler is someone the Rockies need to take a look at. He was N.L. Manager of the Year in 2021, and was very successful for a time in San Francisco. Kapler is a hard-nosed, no-nonsense manager who’s style might be what the Rockies need. He’s also experienced despite his younger age, and now in the Marlin’s front office, it might be time to get Kapler back in the dugout. He has Rockies ties as well

Joe Girardi

Is it time to lure Joe out of retirement? Would he be intrigued by the Rockies’ or, is it too big of a hill to climb? Nobody knows for sure, but, it’s certainly worth the Rockies having a conversation with him. Girardi has a .545 winning percentage in his 16-year managerial career. He’s been to the mountain-top, and he’s helped build teams back up as well. He certainly would be a big name in the dugout, and the Rockies could use someone like him. Like Kapler, Giarardi played in Colorado and was a major fan favorite.

Rodney Linaris

Though he doesn’t have ties to the Rockies, Linaris isn’t a retread. Instead, he’s be a fresh approach for a club that needs a fresh start. He’s known as a rising star in the manager ranks and is currently working in the Rays organization. While guys like Kapler, Girardi and Walt Weiss might sound like they make sense for the Rockies, Linaris is someone who the Rockies could look to to alter the franchise in a positive way going forward.