Rockies Set to Designate Sam Hilliard for Assignment

Mark J. Rebilas, Imagn Images

The Rockies are set to designate outfielder Sam Hilliard for assignment, according to Patrick Saunders of the Denver Post. This decision corresponds with the signing of fellow outfielder Mickey Moniak, a move that was reported yesterday.

Hilliard, 31, was expected to serve as a bench outfielder for Colorado. However, following the Angels' release of Moniak, the Rockies quickly seized the opportunity to acquire him, which has resulted in Hilliard being pushed further down the depth chart. The regular outfield playing time is likely to be shared among Brenton Doyle, Jordan Beck, Nick Martini, and Sean Bouchard, with Moniak potentially vying for a spot as well.

This situation leaves Hilliard in a precarious position, despite his long-standing association with the Rockies. Drafted by Colorado in 2015, he made his major league debut in 2019 and remained with the team until the end of the 2022 season. He was traded to Atlanta before the 2023 season, and after a stint on the waiver wire ahead of 2024, he returned to the Rockies.

Throughout his career, Hilliard has demonstrated power and speed, but these strengths have been undermined by a high strikeout rate. In 875 career plate appearances, he has recorded 42 home runs and 24 stolen bases, but his strikeout rate stands at a significant 34.1%. His batting line of .219/.296/.438 results in an 84 wRC+.

Although Hilliard is out of options, the Rockies have offered him a contract for 2025, agreeing to a $1 million salary for this year. With at least three years of service time, he has the right to decline an outright assignment and opt for free agency. However, since he has less than five years of service, doing so would mean forfeiting the remaining salary owed to him. If he clears waivers, he is likely to remain with the Rockies as non-roster depth.