The Colorado Rockies have announced that Bud Black, the winningest manager in franchise history, will be returning for another season. Black has been extended through 2025, following a season where the Rockies finished with a 61-101 record, the second-worst in baseball. The team has also made changes to its coaching staff, with bullpen coach Reid Cornelius and assistant hitting coach P.J. Pilittere not returning.
The Rockies' senior vice president and general manager, Bill Schmidt, expressed confidence in the team's direction, citing the growth of talented young players as a positive sign for the future. Despite recent struggles, the organization remains committed to building a winning team for its fans.
This season, the Rockies saw promising performances from young players like Ezequiel Tovar, Michael Toglia, and Brenton Doyle. The team also has high hopes for prospects such as Chase Dollander and Charlie Condon, who are expected to make an impact in the near future.
Colorado last made the postseason in 2018, led by a lineup that included notable names like Charlie Blackmon, Carlos González, Nolan Arenado, Trevor Story, and DJ LeMahieu. Since then, the roster has undergone significant changes, with key players departing via free agency or trades.
Bud Black, who took over as manager in 2016, has a record of 537-657 with the Rockies. Known for his ability to connect with players, Black has navigated the challenges of managing games at Coors Field effectively. Prior to his time in Colorado, he managed the San Diego Padres and was named the NL Manager of the Year in 2010.
As the Rockies look to improve and compete in a tough NL West division, they signed Kris Bryant to a lucrative contract in an effort to bolster their roster. However, injuries have limited Bryant's impact, contributing to back-to-back 100-loss seasons for the team.
Despite recent setbacks, the Rockies remain optimistic about the future under Bud Black's leadership. With a focus on developing young talent and building a competitive team, the organization is determined to return to postseason contention in the coming years.
