SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- The Rockies are expected to have a lineup capable of big run totals, as every year. The pitching is a question, as every year, but Rockies manager Walt Weiss said during a video interview with MLB.com that he believes the pitching has the talent to offer a positive answer.
The Rockies will be trying to make forward strides in a pitching-rich division, where the Dodgers, led by Clayton Kershaw, and Giants, with Madison Bumgarner, have been dominant in recent years and the D-backs intend to be improved after signing former Dodgers standout Zack Greinke.
Weiss expressed confidence in all-time wins leader Jorge De La Rosa and 2015 revelation Chad Bettis. But the depth of the rotation depends on two right-handers who have dealt with injury -- Tyler Chatwood, returning from an elbow surgery that sidelined him since late April 2014, and Jordan Lyles, who had left hand and right big toe injuries (but no right arm issues) limit his participation the last two years.
Having played shortstop on a bullpen-driven 1995 team that made the Rockies' first playoff trip, Weiss is excited about the front office's attempt to reenact that type of savvy and effectiveness.