Rockies Farm Director Zach Wilson on Riley Pint | FanGraphs
“That’s what we’re trying to create: a major-league No. 1 starter, not a Low-A No. 1 starter.” That’s one of the many gems Zach Wilson divulged to David Laurila about the Rockies’ top pitching prospect. Wilson also noted that the reason Pint’s strikeout numbers weren’t as high as one would expect for someone who throws a 100 mph fastball was that they had him focusing on fastball command more than anything else.
Pint appears to be in good hands with the Rockies. It’s hard to ignore the numbers, and in a lot of cases it’s detrimental to do so. Teenage pitcher in his first try of full-season ball is definitely a case to ignore the numbers and trust the process.
Lunch Special: Any chance the Rockies land Shohei Ohtani? | The Denver Post
Patrick Saunders took questions over lunch yesterday. One person asked if Antonio Senzatela could close for the Rockies next season, and Saunders responded that he doesn't even think he'll be in the bullpen. At least right now, the Rockies' rotation in 2018 looks full to the brim (famous last words). Speaking of closers, Saunders thinks the Rockies would be "out" on Holland if his price tag rises to three years/$45 million.
Ryan McMahon “penciled in” at first base for 2018? | Rox Pile
Speaking of that chat, Saunders suggested that Ryan McMahon may have the inside track at first base in 2018. Kevin Henry expands on that possibility here.
From elsewhere
Guest posts from Earth Two: Larry Walker is already a Hall of Famer | Purple Row
Larry Walker week continued on Purple Row yesterday (and we have a big one today as well). Here, we have a guest post from Earth Two, where Larry Walker is in the Hall of Fame, where he obviously belongs to all those smarter Earth Two-ians.
Shohei Ohtani: The Padres have laid the groundwork to sign the Japanese “Babe Ruth” | Gaslamp Ball
Speaking of guys the Rockies would rather not see 19 times a year, there's Shohei Ohtani. It seems like it's down to the Padres and Mariners for his services.
J.D. Martinez can’t possibly be the backup plan to Giancarlo Stanton | McCovey Chronicles
Grant Brisbee discusses the pros and cons of JD Martinez serving as the back-up get if the Giants fall short on Giancarlo Stanton. From the Rockies' perspective, it's all con.
Cubs sign Tyler Chatwood to a three-year, $38 million deal | Bleed Cubbie Blue
Old friend Tyler Chatwood signed with the Cubs for a price tag that suggests the Rockies probably should have made him a qualifying offer. Also, I believe this wraps up a lasting remnant from Catcher Wars. The Rockies acquired Chatwood from the Angels for Chris Iannetta.