What we could see from the Rockies before the 2024 Trade Deadline

It’s no secret that the Rox are a favorite to sell at this deadline, otherwise known as trading some solid players on the MLB team that are likely at the end of their current contracts. Though being near the bottom in terms of record, the Rockies are in a unique spot where they have an overflow of hitters at specific positions. It will certainly be interesting to see what the Rockies front office can offer, as well as be offered, as many teams try to make a push for the postseason.

Despite the occasional head-scratching mistake, Elías Díaz has looked good defensively at catcher this season. Past years in Colorado, he’s struggled to make accurate throws, and the overall metrics of what makes a good catcher wasn’t there. This year’s first half he’s taken a step up, being on the top 10 list of catchers with 400 innings or more in measuring overall defensive production. https://library.fangraphs.com/defense/def/

This, plus hitting for a high batting average and the Rockies’ hopeful franchise catcher Drew Romo performing well in Triple-A, certainly makes Díaz a trade candidate. Even one that could start at catcher for a contending team that needs an extra bat at the position.

Potential Candidates: Guardians, Yankees, Pirates

Brendan Rodgers hasn’t exactly been what Colorado was expecting, but with more contact being made with the ball and having been a former top high-rated prospect and a draft pick, there’s a chance the Rockies will try to shop him. Rodgers’ contract is not extended past this season, but unlike Elías Díaz, he is arbitration-eligible for next year. Though this means there’s a lower chance of him being moved, it’s still likely the team chooses to move forward and bring in Adael Amador at 2nd base sooner rather than later. We’ll be missing out on Brendan staying with the Rockies his entire career, as well as a great defensive second baseman and former shortstop; however, it may be best for the team to hit the reset button this year and get what they can for the future.

Potential Candidates: Mets, Pirates, Red Sox, Guardians, Royals, Mariners

The Rockies’ system is continuing to overflow with position players, especially outfielders. MLB had its draft on July 14th, where the Rockies selected a college OF/3B slugger, Charlie Condon, with the 3rd overall pick. Although he could slot in at third base once McMahon has run his course, this adds to the very long list of talented Rockies outfield prospects. Not to mention the two young Blake Street Bazookas in Jones and Doyle that have already produced immensely at the major league level. It’s not unrealistic to assume that the Rockies try to trade an outfielder currently in the MLB or even in the farm system to make room for others that are improving rapidly.

In terms of what the Rockies should trade for, you can never read the front office’s mind. Everyone knows they need pitching, and trading is a perfect way for Colorado to acquire arms. Since Bill Schmidt has stepped in as GM after the dreaded Arenado trade, there’s been an initiative to move and package older hitters for younger pitchers. If history repeats itself, we’ll likely hear that a couple of current Rockies were shopped, potentially even in one trade. Unfortunately, be ready to not see some familiar faces in purple anymore, but also look for younger players that could be acquired or called up!