Rockies are ‘close’ to a deal with Daniel Murphy, per report

The Colorado Rockies had an impressive 2018 season which saw them reach the playoffs and post a 91-72 record. While they didn’t exactly make a lengthy run in the playoffs after getting swept by the Brewers in the NLDS, the Rockies had a lot of cause for optimism going into 2019 with Nolan Arenado and co.

However, not all is well in Colorado as it looks like they will lose their best reliever, Adam Ottavino, to free agency along with Carlos Gonzalez, DJ LeMahieu, and others. As a result, the Rockies roster has some promise, but currently finds itself with its fair share of holes. Fortunately, it looks like one of those roster holes appears to be close to being filled.

DJ LeMahieu has been excellent for the Rockies over the last few seasons which saw him win the batting title in 2016, play Gold Glove defense, and consistently performing at around a 3 WAR level. One can understandably be skeptical of his numbers since he played at Coors Field, but one can also understand that his loss will be felt by the Rockies.

In potentially getting Daniel Murphy, as Rosenthal reports, the Rockies would be getting a better offensive player, but the dropoff defensively is very real. In fact, given the Rockies’ woes at first base, it is entirely possible Murphy will see time over at 1st a bit to give him some rest while keeping his bat in the lineup. However, what this signing does show is that while the Rockies may be losing some pieces this offseason, they are far from throwing in the towel in the NL West.