The Colorado Rockies have been busy bolstering their lineup, particularly their first base options. In a strategic move, they acquired Edouard Julien and T.J. Rumfield, both of whom have the potential to make a significant impact. However, the team's president of baseball operations, Paul DePodesta, remains open to further enhancements, indicating a dynamic and evolving roster.
The Rockies' first basemen had a disappointing performance last season, ranking 29th in OPS. Michael Toglia, who started the season as the everyday starter, struggled with a .592 mark in 329 plate appearances and was eventually sent down to Triple-A. Warming Bernabel, who began his career with impressive numbers, also faced challenges, finishing the year with a 78 wRC+ and being outrighted off the roster.
The team's first base situation was further complicated by the lack of depth, as no other player reached 60 plate appearances. Kyle Farmer, Orlando Arcia, Keston Hiura, and Blaine Crim filled in after Toglia's departure, but Crim remains the only one on the current roster.
Among the options, Troy Johnston stands out as a waiver claim, indicating a potential competition for the first base role. Johnston's solid performance in the big leagues, with a 109 wRC+ across 121 plate appearances, and his strong minor league track record make him a strong contender. He has a history of being older than his competition, but his .307/.399/.549 slash line in 134 games between Double-A and Triple-A in 2023 is impressive.
Blaine Crim, another 28-year-old, is expected to complement Johnston with his right-handed skills. Despite a slow start with the Rangers, Crim found success with the Rockies, popping five home runs in 15 games. However, his power production came with a high strikeout rate.
T.J. Rumfield, acquired in a trade with the Yankees, brings a strong Triple-A record to the table. With a .285/.378/.447 slash line in 2025 and a 116 wRC+ in both stints at the highest minor league level, Rumfield has already compiled 252 games at Triple-A and is in MLB camp as a non-roster invitee.
Charlie Condon, the third overall pick in the 2024 draft, is expected to take on this role in the future but may not be ready for the starting position just yet. His 132 wRC+ at Double-A is impressive, but some time in Triple-A is likely on the horizon.
The team is also considering free agent signings, with veterans like Wilmer Flores, Rhys Hoskins, and Donovan Solano as potential right-handed options. However, the 41-year-old Justin Turner is unlikely to sign up for part-time work on a rebuilding team.
The Rockies' first base situation is a work in progress, with DePodesta's openness to further additions indicating a dynamic and evolving roster. The team's goal is to find the right combination of players to strengthen their lineup and improve their performance.
