What to expect from the Colorado Rockies in 2018
The Colorado Rockies were a surprising entrant in the 2017 postseason. In order to repeat, they may need a lot of luck.
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This is certainly not the Rockies fault. They have made moves to remain in contention, countering their bullpen losses by bringing in one of the better closers in the game and a solid setup man. Chris Iannetta gives Colorado more offense behind the plate, something that was lacking before the trade for Jonathan Lucroy.
However, the rest of the division has improved. The Giants are all in on the coming season, strengthening their lineup as they look to continue that even year magic. The Diamondbacks have closed the gap to the Dodgers, and appear to be the top two teams in the division. Even the Padres have improved, bringing in Eric Hosmer. The Rockies have, at the very worst, maintained their position from last year. But it may not be enough to reach the playoffs again.
If Colorado is going to return to the postseason, those improvements need to come from within. Jon Gray needs to stay healthy, and continue his development into an ace. Jeff Hoffman, Kyle Freeland, and German Marquez need to take another step forward. Meanwhile, Trevor Story needs to make more consistent power in order to become a true middle of the lineup threat.
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The Colorado Rockies have made moves to remain in contention. But with a difficult NL West, those moves may not be enough. Prediction: Fourth place in the NL West.