As teams look to come out of a rebuilding process, or actually build a contending roster after years of mediocrity, they need to throw money around to attract those star players. The Tigers did so with Ivan Rodriguez, the Nationals with Jayson Werth, and the Padres with Eric Hosmer, amongst other faces and places. Now it is the Colorado Rockies‘ turn.
The Rockies sent a shock wave through the baseball universe on Wednesday as they signed Kris Bryant. He agreed to a seven year contract worth $182 million, which includes a no trade clause, as he immediately becomes the face of the franchise.
Colorado Rockies have new face of franchise
It is a shocking reversal for a team that has essentially done everything wrong for the past few years. Nolan Arenado, the face of the franchise, was given away as the team paid the Cardinals to take him. They failed to give Jon Gray a Qualifying Offer. Neither Gray nor Trevor Story were traded at the deadline, infuriating Story in the process.
But their confidence has not waivered that they have a contending franchise. While all the evidence may point to the contrary, the Rockies are at least trying. They have even stepped outside of their comfort zone and are bringing in players from outside the organization.
However, none of them have the stature that Bryant does. He instantly becomes the best player on their roster, a true impact bat that could produce incredible numbers on the Rockies. His defensive versatility can allow Colorado to find the best fit for the franchise without worrying about position as they look to build a core for the next contending team.
Bryant could help in other ways as well. Just as the Tigers, Nationals, and Padres were able to do, adding that marquee free agent could lead to other signings. While some players chase money, others chase rings. In order to attract the latter, and to build around that core, the talent has to be there. Bryant helps the Rockies take that step.
The Colorado Rockies have a new face of the franchise with Kris Bryant. He also shows that they are serious about building a contending team.