Colorado Rockies: Tyler Anderson’s outing a reminder to us about spring | Rox Pile
While Tyler Anderson might not have had the best initial outing in spring training, Bud Black still believes in what he’s doing to prepare for the regular season. He’s working out the kinks, trying to figure out what will work in 2019 for him. He had a very up-and-down year in 2018, and he was able to remain healthy. We just have to remember that spring training is not necessarily an accurate representation of what will happen in the regular season. Anderson especially is just working out what works and what doesn’t. He’s using these exhibition games to get himself right for the new season.
Colorado Rockies: Hot streak has Pat Valaika “in the mix” | Rox Pile
There is a lot of talent competing for the infield for the Rockies in the 2019 season. Many of the young players have experience, and they can definitely get the job done. However, Pat Valaika is showing that he also has what it takes. He hit two home runs in Sunday’s spring training game against the Giants. Valaika’s trying to forget last year’s forgettable performance. He’s showing us that he is a real contender for the second base spot replacing DJ LeMahieu. He really just provides the Rockies with a solid, versatile option. He can certainly get the job done, and we’ll see where he ends up in the regular season.
Colorado Rockies: Bud Black’s spring formula for pitching success | Rox Pile
Spring training games don’t really matter; they’re just a way to see some benchmarks for various player. Pitchers especially have a chance to display what they can do, as well as test out some different pitches. Bud Black wants them to concentrate on getting the delivery down, and then working on velocity and other elements along those lines. Spring training is just working out different issues before the real season starts.
Rockies experimenting with Arenado in 2 spot | Rockies.com
In an attempt to get Nolan Arenado to have more plate appearances, he’s been hitting second in spring training. Arenado wants to help his team win, and he’s glad he can work on figuring out the best way to do so in spring training. He’s used to hitting third, so this is a bit of an adjustment. The biggest impact would be to have him get more impactful at bats late in the game, and this could certainly help if it works out.
Ian Desmond in center field for the Rockies looks like the right fit | Denver Post ($)
Thus far, things are looking good for Ian Desmond. In the eight Cactus League games played so far, he’s performed well, making some difficult plays. Charlie Blackmon even has acknowledged that Desmond looks comfortable out there. One thing that the Rockies are hoping for some more offensive production out of him. He does have the hustle and the leadership that are helpful for the Rockies, and Desmond himself has said that he’s grown during his time in Colorado. He’s got the support of the team, and while the fans might take a while to win over, hopefully 2019 can be the season he does so.
The Rockies took on the Giants in Sunday’s spring training game, defeating them 9-3. Kyle Freeland threw well, while Bryan Shaw is still trying to find what works. Pat Valaika hit well, and prospect Sam Hilliard did well in the outfield.