Injuries to factor heavily into Rockies' roster
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- We did a Rockies Opening Day roster prediction a few weeks ago, with the warning that injuries do and will happen. Camp has lived up to that guarantee (although the need for pitcher Chad Bettis to undergo chemotherapy for testicular cancer is not what anyone expects or
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- We did a Rockies Opening Day roster prediction a few weeks ago, with the warning that injuries do and will happen. Camp has lived up to that guarantee (although the need for pitcher
Catcher
Tony Wolters,
Wolters had a bout with a hyperextended right elbow early in camp, but is healthy. Garneau, a solid-throwing receiver, was challenging with a strong offensive spring. Then power-hitting rookie Tom Murphy suffered a hairline fracture of the right forearm.
First base
Second base
DJ LeMahieu
He'll follow up on a batting title last year, and will continue his career of solid defense.
Third base
He hasn't hit for average at the World Baseball Classic, but the intensity of games should help him prepare for the season.
Shortstop
He has hit for power again this spring. Last year, a powerful spring led to a history-making start to his rookie year.
Utility
Offense has been a struggle throughout his career and the issues have continued this spring. But in 2014 in regular duty at shortstop with the Padres, under Black, Amarista earned seven Defensive Runs Saved. Story missed the final two months last season with a hand injury, and the Rockies didn't have anyone who could provide defense at Amarista's level.
Outfield
Starting rotation
Bullpen
Greg Holland (closer),
If Holland, who missed last season with Tommy John surgery, continues to progress the way he has this spring, he can anchor a late bullpen that has potential to be strong. If Rusin can't return from an oblique injury by the opener, it would give Black the chance to carry Hoffman or Marquez. Righty
Thomas Harding has covered the Rockies since 2000, and for MLB.com since 2002. Follow him on Twitter @harding_at_mlb, listen to podcasts and** like his Facebook page**.