The Colorado Rockies' outfield situation is under the microscope, and the potential for trades is heating up! With Paul DePodesta at the helm of baseball operations, the Rockies are in a unique position. They're one of the few teams yet to make a significant splash in free agency, and their activity in the trade market has been minimal. But could that be about to change, especially in the outfield? Let's dive in.
The Rockies' new executive is inheriting a team that's struggled, and the focus isn't on immediate investment in the 2026 season. With few established veterans to leverage for trades, the outfield presents a possible exception. DePodesta has hinted at the possibility of making moves there to bolster the team's pitching staff.
Here's a breakdown of the outfielders who could be on the move:
Brenton Doyle:
Doyle, with his impressive potential, might be the most valuable outfielder on the roster, but he's also the least likely to be traded. He's under team control for four seasons, and is projected to earn around ({3.2}MM) this year. A standout defensively, Doyle has caught the eye of teams seeking a strong center fielder.
But here's where it gets controversial... While he showed promise in 2024 with 23 home runs and a reduced strikeout rate, his batting performance dipped significantly last year. He maintained a similar strikeout rate, but his ground ball rate increased, and his power numbers declined.
Mickey Moniak:
Moniak is coming off his best season at the plate, hitting a career-high 24 home runs. He signed a contract for ({1.25}MM) after being released by the Angels in Spring Training. He also had a .270/.306/.518 slash line across 461 plate appearances. He made hard contact on 45% of his balls in play, the best of his six MLB seasons.
However, the numbers don't tell the whole story. Moniak's stats were heavily influenced by Coors Field, where he excelled. His performance away from Denver was less impressive. His usage was also carefully managed, with limited plate appearances against left-handed pitchers.
And this is the part most people miss...Moniak's defensive grades took a hit in Colorado after being a solid defender with the Angels. While he possesses the tools to be a competent defender, it's a question for potential trade partners. He's under team control through 2027 and is projected to earn around ({4.2}MM) in arbitration.
Tyler Freeman:
Freeman, acquired in a trade with the Guardians, showed consistency at the plate, hitting .281/.354/.361 with a low strikeout rate. He was the team's most reliable on-base threat. While lacking power, he excels at putting the ball in play and possesses above-average speed.
Similar to Moniak, Freeman's defensive metrics were below par, despite his athleticism. He is controllable for three seasons with a ({1.8}MM) arbitration projection.
Jordan Beck:
Beck, a supplemental first-round pick in 2022, showed promise in his sophomore season. He hit 16 home runs, 27 doubles, and 5 triples.
However, his batting line was below league average when accounting for Coors Field. His strikeout rate was high, and his performance declined after the All-Star break. Beck has intriguing physical tools, but questions remain about his approach and hitting ability.
Yanquiel Fernández / Zac Veen:
Both left-handed hitters who were once highly regarded prospects, have yet to make a significant impact in the majors. Neither has a substantial MLB track record. They both have options remaining and are likely headed to Triple-A.
What do you think? Do you agree with the assessment of these players? Which outfielder do you think is most likely to be traded, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
