Rockies Face Long Rebuild After Blunt New Year’s Message.

The Colorado Rockies entered 2026 fully aware that meaningful improvement will not come quickly. Newly hired president of baseball operations Paul DePodesta has taken charge of a franchise coming off three straight seasons with more than 100 losses, including a historically poor 119-loss campaign in 2025. DePodesta acknowledged the scale of the challenge when he was introduced, emphasizing that rebuilding the Rockies will require patience and balance. Colorado plans to rely on internal player development while selectively using free agency to add talent. However, attracting free agents to Coors Field has long been difficult, and DePodesta made it clear that the organization will be strategic rather than reckless in that market. As he explained, free agency will be part of the team’s approach, but only when the fit is right. Given the disastrous results of last season, expectations for 2026 are modest. Bleacher Report writer Zachary D. Rymer summarized the Rockies’ situation with a blunt two-word New Year’s resolution: “Suck less.” Rymer expressed skepticism about Colorado becoming a surprise contender but noted that it would be hard for the team to perform worse than it did in 2025.

To this point, DePodesta’s most notable roster move has been the acquisition of left-handed pitcher Brennan Bernardino from the Boston Red Sox. While the trade is unlikely to significantly change the team’s outlook, Bernardino provides flexibility as either a bullpen arm or a spot starter under manager Warren Schaeffer. Major additions are not expected in the immediate future. The front office is focused on evaluating talent throughout the organization before making larger commitments. Although center fielder Brenton Doyle could attract trade interest, moving him now would not align with the Rockies’ goal of building a more competitive roster for 2026 and beyond.

With spring training approaching in February, Colorado still has work to do. Even marginal improvement would technically satisfy Rymer’s resolution, but continued struggles could indicate that the rebuilding process will take longer than anticipated.