So it’s the time of year where the headline says one thing, a valid question, and yet the takeaway for many fans will be an entirely different thing. I assume I speak for at least some people when I say that, having made our peace with LeMahieu’s seemingly imminent departure, we’re just here for the rumors.
Nick Groke passes along a few things about the Rockies’ activities this offseason, at least according to general manager Jeff Bridich. There is an apparent moment of candor about LeMahieu’s likely departure, but then there are two nuggets about trades that weren’t. Bridich says the team looked into deals for Paul Goldschmidt and Carlos Santana, both of whom have since been dealt to different teams. He also mentions free agent Marwin Gonzalez as a potential target.
Let’s remember something about Bridich. Rare have been the cases where he said something to the media and then that’s what the team did. He keeps things pretty quiet, so while these grumblings are encouraging in terms of the Rockies addressing their needs on offense, we should also acknowledge that it might be another year of Ian Desmond, first baseman.
Besides those comments from Bridich, this is a great piece about LeMahieu.
Baseball’s Most Handsome Managers | Hardball Talk
Bud Black, who called David Eckstein a son of a bitch but in a nice way in the article above, checks in at number eight on this list. Craig Calcaterra refers to him as baseball’s “leading silver fox,” and rightfully so. This year’s class of handsome managers is stacked, so being in the top 10 must truly be an honor. This is always a fun read this time of year.
A Conversation with Adam Ottavino | Statcast Podcast
Unfortunately Ottavino might not be back with the Rockies, but if you want to hear a pitcher talk thoughtfully about pitching at Coors Field and other topics, check out this podcast conversation with Mike Petriello.
Fall League releases Top Prospects team | MLB.com
The Rockies organization has three prospects checking in on this list. This includes familiar names that we will surely continue to hear from. First baseman Tyler Nevin, outfielder Sam Hilliard and relief pitcher Justin Lawrence are all recognized for their showings in the Fall League. It’s easy to get excited about prospects, especially in the dead of winter, but it is especially encouraging to see these prospects on a loaded list with some big names.