Rockies fans have had to endure a string of subpar baseball teams in the past few seasons. Colorado has not been to the playoffs since 2009, even with superstars like shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and outfielder Carlos Gonzalez on it’s roster.
To be honest, I don’t think Tulo or Cargo will ever get World Series rings. I just don’t see the Rox being that competitive in the next five or so years.
It’s hard to believe that they are getting old- Tulowitzki turns 31 this year and Gonzalez will be 30 in October. In baseball years, that’s up there. For most players it signifies that they have reached their peak performance levels and will ultimately begin to decline.
I like Tulo. He’s a good leader, a hard worker, and a tremendous talent. I feel the same about CarGo. But unfortunately I don’t think it’s them who will lead Colorado back into competitiveness and the playoffs.
The future of the Rockies lies with third baseman Nolan Arenado. That’s not to say that he will be the only key component, but I think that he will be a cornerstone of the Rockies teams of the near future.
Arenado is off to a hot start this season. He’s hitting .287 with 10 homers and 31 RBIs, leading the team in the latter two categories. Defensively, his value goes without saying. We’ve already him make some extraordinary plays this season. The two-time Rawlings Gold Glove winner has some more awards coming his way in the future- that’s a promise.
Arenado is exactly what the Rockies will need in the next few seasons. He’s a smart kid, he’s fast, energetic, and this season has been clutch for the Rox on multiple occasions.
I’d say the Rockies’ front office has a solid five years to get the wheels turning again. If the Rockies can muster even a decent pitching rotation with guys like Arenado, Charlie Blackmon, Corey Dickerson, and DJ LeMahieu all in their prime, the Rox will be a force to be reckoned with.
I hope that Tulowitzki and Gonzalez will be a part of Colorado’s success in the next few seasons. But the book on them will close sooner rather than later. So Rockies fans, be prepared to let your attachments to CarGo and Tulo go. Get ready for guys like Arenado to take center stage. The future of the franchise is right in front of you.
Contact CU Independent Rockies Beat Writer Justin Guerriero at justin.guerriero@colorado.edu and follow him on Twitter @TheHungry_Hippo
