Top 5 reasons why Rockies' fans should be excited after five Cactus League games

It’s flown by, but, a week of Cactus League games are in the books. And while early spring training games often times don’t reveal much about a big league club’s future, that doesn’t mean signs of progress can’t be seen.

Early spring training games also don’t mean reasons to be optimistic can’t be found, even if you’re a fan of a 61-win team from a year ago, and a club that’s picked to finish last in their division yet again.

That’s right Colorado Rockies’ fans, you can be optimistic right now. And I’m going to give you my top five reasons to let yourself be excited about this season after the first week of spring training games.

1. Chase Dollander

Two days ago, I don’t know if Dollander would have taken the top spot on this list. But after Monday’s start against the Giants, I can’t put him anywhere else. Sure, the 23-year-old fireballer from Tennessee gave up a homer, but, that’s what hard-throwing pitchers do sometimes. I choose however, to look at his mound presence, and the way the entire club, the entire stadium in Scottsdale was excited to see him pitch. Yes, Dollander doesn’t just have the stuff to be a No. 1 guy in the Rockies’ rotation someday, he’s got that it-factor, too. He’s got the swagger a pitcher needs to become one of the best in the bigs. The talent has been there from day one, but after watching Dollander perform against major league hitters, he’s got more than just talent, he’s got star power. Rockies fans, you have a rock star coming to Denver, sooner then later.

2. Michael Toglia’s power

Colorado expects Toglia to be the thumper in a power-hitting lineup. And he’s showing signs of a breakout season at the plate being in the cards this year. Two monster blasts already this spring are a good indication that Toglia, when healthy, is ready to tear apart hitter-friendly Coors Field this summer.

3. Colorado’s pitching performances

It isn’t just Dollander who has been impressive. After finishing last in the MLB in almost every pitching category that matters last season, the Rockies are trying to completely rebuild all phases of its staff. And so far, the results are tangible. Kyle Freeland has a strong start under his belt, while several other projected starters have yet to throw a pitch in a game. And still, the Rockies have a team ERA of less than four, while they are averaging seven strikeouts per nine innings. Those numbers, while early, are a reason to be excited, because, pitching is going to be a major factor in whether or not the Rockies make a big jump forward this season.

4. Zac Veen

Like Dollander on the hill, Veen is turning the heads of everybody in big league camp so far this spring. He has a homer and a pair of multiple-hit games to his credit so far, and his defensive prowess in the outfield is undeniable. I’m not sure there’s room for Veen on the opening-day roster, but, he’s a star in the making and keeping him out of Denver for long won’t be easy.

5. Kris Bryant seems healthy and happy

It’s been a tough journey for Bryant since arriving in Colorado. And there’s no doubt, Rockies fans have probably grown a little impatient. But, make no mistake, he’s the leader of the franchise now that Charlie Blackmon has retired. He also seems to have embraced the idea of playing out his best baseball years in Colorado. So, a healthy Bryant. Who can play almost every day, can only make the Rockies a better team, on the field and in the club house, and, after a few at-bats in spring training, things are looking good for the former N.L. Rookie of the Year and MVP.