2005 Summary:
The Colorado Rookies suffered a tough 95-loss season that ended the year 15 games behind the National League West Champion San Diego Padres. The 2005 offense was led by first baseman Todd Helton (.320 20 79), outfielder Dustan Mohr (.214 17 38) and young third baseman Garrett Atkins (.287 13 89). Shortstop Clint Barmes (.289 10 46) and Matt Holliday (.307 19 87) also contributed to the lineup.
The 2005 Rockies pitch was as thin as air at their home stadium, Coors Field. Beyond the young Jeff Francis (14-12 5.68) and Aaron Cook (7-2 3.67), the rest of the starting pitchers struggled to provide quality starts throughout the year. Starters Jamey Wright (8-16 5.46), Byung-Hyun Kim (5-12 4.86) and Jason Jennings (6-9 5.02) failed to impress. On the bright side, closer Brian Fuentes (2-5 2.91 31 saves) managed to convert 31 saves in 34 save opportunities, and was an impressive 14 of 14 in save opportunities at Coors Field. It’s not an easy task when a pitcher is required to close games in a stadium that is known for late-inning comebacks and missed saves.
Removals out of season:
The Colorado Rockies didn’t make a lot of moves this offseason. However, they added some veteran experience to the bullpen by signing free agent closer Jose Mesa (2-8 4.76). The Rockies also re-signed starter Byung-Hyun Kim and reliever Mike DeJean (5-4 4.48) and traded left-hander Ray King from St. Louis (4-4 388). Receiver Yorvit Torrealba (.234 3 15) was also picked up to improve the position.
2006 analysis:
Growing pains are to be expected with such a young team. Rockie fans must be patient and allow youngsters like third baseman Atkins and shortstop Barmes the time they need to grow in their positions. Right fielder Brad Hawpe (.262 9 47) and outfielders Matt Holliday and Dustin Mohr are expected to contribute more in 2006. Both players showed they were capable of handling major league pitches during the 2005 season and are both expected to be a an important part of the Rockies’ future.
Colorado is reluctant to abandon its game plan and with so many young prospects no one can blame them. Management was overly cautious in the offseason and missed the opportunity to add a ton of new faces.
A newcomer to the pitching staff will be pitcher Ray King. It will help, but the starting rotation shouldn’t be expected to provide much better numbers than in 2005. Francis and Cook should start more in 2006 and Rockies closer Brian Fuentes finished the season strong. In August and September, Fuentes had an impressive 15 of 15 in save chances. The Rockies are looking for some breaks to advance and if the opening pitch can impress, the offense should be able to score runs. The Rockies are still a few years and starting pitchers away from being considered a legitimate contender for a division title or wild-card spot.
