The Rockies enter the 2015 season looking to improve on a 66-win season a year ago, when they finished fourth in the National League West. This team has questions, lots of them, as it enters its first season under the leadership of general manager Jeff Bridich. Denver Post baseball reporter Nick Groke looks at 10 of the biggest issues surrounding the 2015 Rockies:
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10. Whose team is this?
After the resignations of GM Dan O’Dowd and his assistant, Bill Geivett, owner Dick Monfort promoted Bridich. But manager Walt Weiss got a bump in authority too, working closely with Bridich in setting the team’s agenda during the offseason. His fingerprints are all over the roster this spring. But how much say will Weiss have going forward? And will Weiss last beyond this season if the Rockies again lose 90 or more games?
9. Who will close?
LaTroy Hawkins, 42, says he will retire after this season. At his age, it’s unlikely he can be a workhorse closer for a full season. Who steps in for Hawkins as the closer? Will it be John Axford, a former league saves leader? Or Adam Ottavino, who has a devastating slider? And will it happen during the season?
8. Can these Rockies become the new Blake Street Bombers?
The potential is there. Corey Dickerson’s 24 homers led the team last year. Troy Tulowitzki (21) was the only other Rockies hitter above 20. But with Tulo and Carlos Gonzalez healthy, Dickerson now in a full-time role and third baseman Nolan Arenado showing increased power, the Rockies have thumpers who should thrive at Coors Field.
7. How many all-stars are in this lineup?
Tulowitzki and center fielder Charlie Blackmon were selected a year ago. Tulo and Gonzalez, if healthy, are always strong candidates to make it. Arenado appeared on his way toward making it a season ago until he broke a finger. Dickerson also might have a shot.
6. Is there room for three catchers on this roster?
Weiss says the team actually has 2½. Nick Hundley is the starter, and Michael McKenry is the main backup. Wilin Rosario, last year’s starter, is now a utility player who will back up at first base and serve as a pinch hitter. He’s also trade bait. But so is McKenry.
5. How many Gold Gloves are in this infield?
This could be a historic year in terms of Gold Glove hardware for one infield. Arenado has won two Gold Gloves in two years playing third base. Second baseman DJ LeMahieu won his first Gold Glove last year. First baseman Justin Morneau was a finalist a year ago. And Tulo is among the best defensive shortstops in baseball.
4. Can the Rockies find a way to improve on the road?
The Rockies are the only team in baseball to play all their road games in another time zone. They’re disadvantaged and can’t seem to figure it out. They won just 21 games on the road a season ago, a pitiful performance. Any improvement the Rockies make in the NL West standings must start by being more competitive on the road. The Rockies can’t get any worse away from home. Or can they?
3. How many pitchers will start a game this season?
The Rockies used a team-record 15 starting pitchers last season. They can only hope it’s not so bad this year. But already in spring, the Rockies are hobbling. Several pitchers already are slowed by nagging injuries. Will prospects Eddie Butler and Jon Gray be regulars in the rotation by June? It would be a good sign — some regularity is much needed.
2. Will the Rockies cover their over-under?
The sharp guys in Vegas have settled in at an over-under of 71½ victories. The Rockies won just 66 games last season. To cover, the Rockies need just six more victories this season. That seems doable — if injuries don’t again devastate the lineup.
1. Will Tulo and CarGo still be in Rockies uniforms by the end of the season?
It’s the $36 million question (their combined salaries this year). If the Rox go south, and go south early, will Bridich trade his two best players?
Nick Groke: ngroke@denverpost.com or twitter.com/nickgroke
