It is a long time between now and opening day, but the Colorado Rockies have firmed up many of the open spots on the roster. The addition of Thomas Kahnle in the Rule V draft assures him of a roster spot in our bullpen unless the team decides to give him back to the Rangers. Brett Anderson was brought in to fill a spot in the starting rotation. So where is the team at now?
Starting pitchers: Jhoulys Chacin, Jorge De La Rosa, Tyler Chatwood, Brett Anderson, Juan Nicasio (for now)
Relief Pitchers: Matt Belisle, Rex Brothers, Adam Ottavino, LaTroy Hawkins, Wilton Lopez, Josh Outman, Thomas Kahnle
Outfielders: Michael Cuddyer, Carlos Gonzalez, Charlie Blackmon, Brandon Barnes (possibly Corey Dickerson as well)
Infielders: Nolan Arenado, Troy Tulowitzki, D.J. Le Mahieu (or Josh Rutledge), Johnny Herrera, Justin Morneau (is his contract done yet?), sixth infielder?
Catchers: Wilin Rosario, back-up catcher?
So there are three big questions that remain along with many other small ones. First, who will be the back-up catcher? Second, who will be the fourth bench bat/sixth infielder? Third, will the 25th spot be a fifth outfielder (Corey Dickerson) or an eighth relief pitcher and who will that be? There are answers to most, if not all, of these questions in house, but one or more would probably be better filled by a free agent/trade.
Other small questions include whether Nicasio will be able to keep his spot with the new competition from Lyles, Charlie vs. Corey, and D.J. vs. Josh? These are all things that will make spring training exciting plus whatever injuries end up occurring (knock on wood). So please let me know where you think I might have made a mistake in the above list and who you think will fill the remaining question marks on the team.
Links
Thomas Harding provides some insight from Walt Weiss on the team and his second year of managing.
Troy Renck gives his take from the same interview.