Who Makes Rockies Pitching Mount Rushmore
The Colorado Rockies have often faced scrutiny for their pitching prowess, particularly given the challenges posed by Coors Field, one of the toughest ballparks for hurlers. Yet, despite the odds, several pitchers have etched their names into the franchise’s history. This exploration highlights four standout pitchers who left an indelible mark on the Rockies, without assigning them a particular rank.
Honorable Mentions
Before diving into the legends, it’s worth acknowledging a few notable names who have made significant contributions to the Rockies’ pitching staff: Kyle Freeland, German Marquez, and Jon Gray. Each of these pitchers has demonstrated talent and resilience, but our focus will be on those who have already cemented their legacies.
Jorge De La Rosa
Jorge De La Rosa stands tall among Rockies pitchers, spending nine seasons with the franchise from 2008 to 2016 before heading to the Arizona Diamondbacks. His statistical accomplishments are impressive: he ranks first in franchise history with 86 wins, third with 200 games started, and second with 985 strikeouts.
De La Rosa’s career experienced a remarkable transformation in Denver, particularly at Coors Field, where he boasted a record of 53 wins against only 20 losses. He credited his success to mastering his breaking ball in the unique thin air of Colorado, although he admitted that controlling it on the road proved to be a greater challenge. His enduring popularity with fans solidifies his place among the Rockies’ all-time greats.
Ubaldo Jimenez
While Ubaldo Jimenez’s tenure in Colorado was shorter—spanning from 2006 to 2011—his impact was monumental. He played a pivotal role in leading the Rockies to the playoffs in 2007 and emerged as a true ace for the team.
Jimenez’s breakout year came in 2010, when he became an All-Star with a stellar 19-8 record and a 2.88 ERA. Notably, he was the first pitcher in Rockies history to throw a no-hitter, and he set franchise records for wins, strikeouts, and ERA in a single season. Though his time in Denver ended with a trade to Cleveland in 2011, his legacy as one of the franchise’s finest pitchers remains untarnished.
Brian Fuentes
Brian Fuentes is often regarded as the greatest relief pitcher in Rockies history. Joining the franchise in 2002 and playing until 2008, Fuentes was a force in the bullpen, earning three consecutive All-Star selections from 2005 to 2007.
He holds the title of all-time saves leader for the Rockies with 115, and he ranks second in games pitched at 428, alongside a commendable career ERA of 3.38. Fuentes was part of the 2007 team that reached the World Series. Although he temporarily lost the closer role during the playoffs, he reclaimed it in 2008, finishing with 30 saves. His dominance in the late innings has set a high bar for future Rockies closers.
Aaron Cook
The final spot on this pitching Mount Rushmore comes down to a heated debate between Aaron Cook and Kyle Freeland. While Freeland is still active and has shown promise as one of the better Rockies pitchers in the late 2010s, Cook’s historical achievements give him the edge.
Cook ranks second all-time in wins for the franchise with 72. Though he wasn’t known for overpowering strikeouts—accumulating 558 during his career—his signature sinker allowed him to induce weak contact, showcasing his efficiency on the mound. He holds the record for the most innings pitched in Rockies history, further emphasizing his value to the team.
As the Rockies continue to evolve, the legacy of these four pitchers—De La Rosa, Jimenez, Fuentes, and Cook—serves as a testament to the talent that has emerged from Denver, proving that even in a challenging environment, greatness can thrive.
