BREAKING: The Colorado Rockies have plunged to a staggering 98 losses this season, following a 4-3 defeat against the visiting Chicago Cubs at Coors Field yesterday. This marks the third consecutive year the Rockies will finish with 100 losses, a stark reminder of a franchise in turmoil.
As the crowd of 47,394 fans erupted with cheers, the majority were rooting for the opposing team, with one player estimating that 75% of the spectators supported the Cubs. Pitcher Kyle Freeland, a Denver native, expressed his disappointment, stating, “It eats at you… seeing a 60/40 split inside our own ballpark.”
The Rockies’ struggles have diminished fan morale significantly since their last postseason appearance in 2018. Attendance has dwindled, from over 3 million fans in 2018 to a concerning decline, as the team ranks 29th in runs scored and 30th in runs allowed this season.
In a move signaling potential change, the Rockies fired longtime manager Bud Black earlier this year after a 7-33 start. The team is now calling on Walker Monfort, the son of owner Dick Monfort, to bring fresh energy as the new executive vice president, with expectations for significant organizational change.
“We have to look at what changes can be made to get this back trending the other direction,” said Walker Monfort.
Despite being mired in a series of poor decisions, including a lackluster draft record yielding only 10 combined WAR from the last decade, there is hope within the organization for a renaissance. Former player Matt Holliday noted, “It gives you an opportunity to look in the mirror” after consecutive 100-loss seasons.
The Rockies’ management has faced scrutiny for their decisions, particularly the underwhelming performance of star player Kris Bryant, who signed a $182 million contract but has played just 170 games in four seasons due to injuries.
As the Rockies prepare for the offseason, there is mounting pressure to overhaul their baseball operations. Rival executives suggest that the Rockies’ long-standing loyalty to internal hires must evolve to stay competitive in the rapidly changing MLB.
Feedback from fans and analysts indicates that a new direction is essential for the Rockies to regain their standing in the league. “We need to honestly evaluate ourselves,” said interim manager Warren Schaeffer, emphasizing the need for a new approach to player development and strategy.
The urgency for change is palpable as the Rockies face the reality of their situation. Walker Monfort’s leadership could be the catalyst for revitalizing a franchise that has languished in mediocrity for far too long. As the offseason approaches, Rockies fans are left wondering if this is the turning point they desperately need.
