One of the teams that comes into 2012 that I feel is a huge mystery on what to expect is the Colorado Rockies. Winners of only 73 games last year, they are flying way under the radar and rightfully so. They have made minor moves but no huge splashes. While other teams have done cannon balls into the pool, they waded in and testing the temperature of the water. They know that they have the core in place to win a World Series, they just need to surround them with the right complimentary pieces. If history lends us any hint on this Rockies' franchise is that they are due for another team that entertains the masses in Denver. In 2009, they won a similar 74 in total and the year after, they took the Wild Card home.
There are returning key cogs in the offense in the form of Troy Tulowitzki, Todd Helton, and Carlos Gonzalez. That locks up three important positions in SS, 1B, and LF. But what about the rest of the team? If you weren't following the Rockies closely, their starting line up will be a mystery because no one is talking about them. It's okay, I'll fill you in.
There will be a battle at different positions during Spring Training which breeds success. At third, it will be high end prospect Nolan Arenado and veteran Casey Blake. The reason it is left between just these two is because third was literally a three person job last year. Ty Wiggington, Kevin Kouzmanoff and Ian Stewart all had significant chunks of starts at the hot corner. However, none of them really helped the Rockies win. Wigginton, Kouzmanoff and Ian Stewart have been since shipped off. Leaving none of that trio. Ian Stewart usually can hide his defensive inabilities with his bat but batting a measly .156 with 0 HRs did not make his case for not being expendable. They say good riddance to the revolving door at third in hopes for one of these two to lock it down for the 2012 campaign. The Rockies will probably tote their new, young prospect out there to see what he's got. If the Rockies solid history of drafting continues, he will be just another example of a team that knows how to build from within. I like the kid to start at the third unless Casey Blake impresses in Spring ball.
Second base was wide open too since Mark Ellis found a new home in Dodger blue. However after acquiring Marco Scutaro, he has filled that cog. Michael Cuddyer was solid in Minnesota for years and now he brings his talents to the high altitude of Coors Field in Right Field. This could improve on his power numbers and he will bring an edge to the team. Ramon Hernandez is projected to be the starting catcher which should bode well for the pitching staff of Colorado who will benefit from his guidance and leadership.
Looking at their projected line up makes me think that Colorado is going for the division crown this year. There is a good mix of veterans and young players that usually can mix well in the postseason. Now let's look at their rotation which no one knows what to expect from.
Yesterday, Orioles' ace Jeremy Guthrie was traded to Colorado and he takes over those duties as the number 1 starter. I love this deal for the Rockies because Guthrie's numbers were inflated due to playing in the American League East. He was being bashed around by the Red Sox and Yankees all year. I think he will thrive in Denver and have a season to remember. Other parts of the rotation are some returnees from last year. They are Chacin and Nicascio. Both of them are so young and will improve. It was Jhoulys Chacin's first season and Juan Nicasio's as well. Most everyone will remember that Nicasio was hit in the head by a line that fractured his neck last year during the season. He is expected to make a full return but it will be interesting to say the least. Alex White will be the 4th starter and he was one of the main pieces in the Ubaldo deal last year from Cleveland. It should be fun to watch him grow as a pitcher. Finally, their 5th starter will be Guillermo Moscoso who was acquired from Oakland in return for Seth Smith. He has only been in the MLB since 2009. I think the Rockies should call up Drew Pomeranz and keep him there. He should be the 5th starter because in his short work with the big league Rockies, he shined. This rotation has a chance to be great.
While all everyone knows about Colorado sports is Tim Tebow, they should start to get excited for the Rockies. This season has potential all over the board mixed with calming, veteran influence. With teams in the MLB drafting smarter and spending money wisely, it is rare to see a team stay down for too long if they are doing it the way. The National League West is a division that is challenging with young talent on each team but not so far out of reach for anybody. I expect a strong showing from the Rockies in 2012.
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