The Colorado Rockies find themselves at a significant crossroads, and the chatter surrounding general manager Bill Schmidt’s potential departure from the organization is gaining momentum. Just a few days ago, the idea of Schmidt being dismissed or reassigned before the upcoming amateur draft and trade deadline seemed unlikely. However, with recent moves in the league—most notably the Washington Nationals abruptly firing president of baseball operations Mike Rizzo and manager Davey Martinez—it’s clear that the Rockies might be under similar scrutiny.
With a dismal record of 21-70, the Rockies are on track for what could be a historic low. The potential to finish the season with an abysmal 37-125 record poses a stark reality, one that might surpass the modern-era woes suffered by the 2024 Chicago White Sox. When it comes to the draft and trade deadline—a time when teams can shift the trajectory of their franchise—the Rockies have enough history of missteps to warrant a serious reevaluation. Schmidt, who has deep roots in the organization, having led the scouting department for over two decades before taking the reins as GM in May 2021, might find his time limited if changes are indeed on the horizon.
Recent organizational shifts have already started to take shape, with the Rockies parting ways with manager Bud Black in mid-May and promoting Warren Schaeffer in his place. Additionally, Walker Monfort, the son of owner Dick Monfort, has stepped into the role of executive vice president. As this reshuffling unfolds, it seems increasingly likely that Schmidt might soon join the ranks of those previously let go.
The upcoming amateur draft is particularly pivotal, with the Rockies holding the fourth overall pick. They possess valuable assets on their major-league roster that could entice other teams. Yet, given the current state of the franchise, their decisions in the coming month will not be overshadowed by prior dysfunction.
The next head of baseball operations will need to bring an outside perspective while being attuned to the unique challenges posed by Coors Field. Whatever changes are made, the new hire will have one crucial task: to rethink the organization from the ground up.
Walker Monfort has, through a team spokesperson, remained tight-lipped about Schmidt’s situation, but any move made shortly could mirror the unconventional timing of the Nationals’ recent shake-up. The Rockies have typically been slow to adapt to industry standards, yet the urgency for change is palpable.
Interestingly, the Monfort brothers have begun acknowledging their franchise’s pressing issues. Dick Monfort has previously commented on the competitive imbalance in baseball and the need for fresh ideas. Reflecting on this direction, Charlie Monfort captured the sentiments of many, stating that the organization requires “a new set of eyeballs.”
However, operating in a league where many smaller-market teams—like the San Diego Padres and Tampa Bay Rays—have found competitive pathways, the Rockies need to take an introspective look at their own strategy. The challenge of succeeding at the altitude of Coors Field is distinct, and it’s clear that the Rockies have struggled to adapt their approach over the years. With only five playoff appearances in their 33-year history and back-to-back appearances just twice, the urgency to grasp the complexities of their home turf is essential.
The hunt for a new leader in baseball operations could leverage insights from someone with past ties to the Rockies who has since gained broader experience. Candidates like Thad Levine, who previously contributed to the Rockies’ front office before heading to the Texas Rangers and Minnesota Twins, could possess the blend of familiarity and innovation that the organization requires. Other prospective hires, such as Seattle Mariners GM Jerry Dipoto and Mariners assistant GM Andy McKay, may also bring valuable insights from their time with Colorado and their current successes.
Choosing the right candidate won’t be an easy feat when considering the breadth of challenges the Rockies face. The franchise has notably struggled in the draft, highlighted by a lack of successful top picks in recent years. With a concerning cumulative -1.7 bWAR from its past 14 top picks, the organization needs to prioritize developing and utilizing young talent effectively. Right-handers like Chase Dollander and outfielder Charlie Condon show promise, but broader strategic changes are essential.
Meanwhile, when it comes to trades, the Rockies have historically been reticent to capitalize on opportunities to maximize player values. This year, they appear poised to explore offers for key players like Ryan McMahon, Germán Márquez, and Jake Bird. Yet, any improvement won’t come from merely being receptive; a full-throttle reassessment of their roster—being open to trading not just veterans but younger talents as well—will be required.
Despite the potential for a more flexible approach, current reluctance to part with younger stars like Dollander and shortstop Ezequiel Tovar suggests a need for greater boldness. As they stand under new management, the Rockies are currently just 14-36 under Schaeffer—a sobering reminder that changes must accelerate if the franchise aims to avoid another season of disappointment.
In short, if Colorado chooses to delay any immediate action regarding Schmidt, it won’t change the unwavering reality that transformation is essential for the future. Dick Monfort can’t afford to merely recognize the need for change; he must appoint the right leader who is empowered to make sweeping reforms throughout the organization. Anything less than this will do little to rectify the mounting challenges facing the franchise, ushering in a period that could indeed drift toward the realm of “ludicrosity.”
