Can the Colorado Rockies rise from the ashes of a historic losing season? After a devastating 119-loss campaign, the worst in franchise history, the Rockies are gearing up for a transformative 2026 spring training. With a revamped front office and manager Warren Schaeffer at the helm for his first full season, the team is determined to turn things around. But here's where it gets intriguing: can they rebuild fast enough to compete in a tough division? And this is the part most people miss—spring training isn’t just about wins and losses; it’s about laying the foundation for a brighter future.
Spring Training 2026: What You Need to Know
Location:
The Rockies will once again call Salt River Fields at Talking Stick in Scottsdale, Arizona, their spring home. Located at 7555 N. Pima Rd., this state-of-the-art facility offers the perfect backdrop for the team’s resurgence.
Key Dates to Mark on Your Calendar:
- Feb. 12: Pitchers and catchers report, officially kicking off the season.
- Feb. 17: The entire squad gathers for their first full workout, a pivotal moment in team chemistry.
- Feb. 20: The Rockies face the Diamondbacks in their Cactus League opener at Salt River Fields (1:10 p.m. MST).
- March 2: A showdown with the World Series champion Dodgers (1:10 p.m.).
- March 4: A unique matchup against Team USA (World Baseball Classic) at 1:10 p.m.
Catch the Games on Radio and TV:
For fans back in Denver, the KOA Rockies Radio Network (850 AM/94.1 FM) will broadcast select games, including:
- Feb. 20: vs. Diamondbacks (1 p.m. pregame/1:10 p.m. first pitch)
- Feb. 22: at Rangers (12:55/1:05 p.m.)
- March 2: vs. Dodgers (1/1:10 p.m.)
- And more! Check the full schedule for additional games.
On the visual side, Rockies.TV will stream key matchups, such as:
- Feb. 20: vs. Diamondbacks
- March 4: vs. Team USA
- March 17: vs. Mariners
Roster Moves: Who’s In and Who’s Out?
The Rockies have made strategic additions to bolster their lineup:
- LHP Brennan Bernardino: A seasoned lefty reliever to strengthen the bullpen.
- RHP Michael Lorenzen: Adds much-needed experience to the starting rotation.
- OF Jake McCarthy: Brings speed and versatility to the outfield.
- UTL Willi Castro: A switch-hitter capable of playing multiple positions.
Controversial Question: With these additions, are the Rockies focusing too much on short-term fixes instead of long-term development?
On the flip side, notable departures include:
- LHP Austin Gomber: Signed a minor league deal with the Rangers.
- RHP German Marquez: Remains unsigned, leaving a hole in the rotation.
- 1B Michael Toglia: Non-tendered and now with the Reds.
Prospects to Keep an Eye On:
The future looks bright with these rising stars:
- 1B Charlie Condon (No. 2 prospect): A power-hitting first baseman.
- OF Zac Veen (No. 11): Lightning-fast outfielder with a high ceiling.
- LHP Carson Palmquist (No. 13): A lefty with promising stuff.
Final Thoughts and Your Turn:
As the Rockies embark on this critical spring training, the question remains: Can they rebuild fast enough to contend? Or is this just the first step in a longer journey? Let us know what you think in the comments—are you optimistic about the Rockies’ future, or do you think they’re still years away from success? Sign up for the Rockies Insider (https://myaccount.denverpost.com/dp/preference) to stay updated on all the latest MLB analysis and join the conversation!
