Hunter Goodman Makes History with Record-Breaking Home Run Season for Colorado Rockies
Hunter Goodman Shines in an Otherwise Tough Season
In what has been a challenging year for the Colorado Rockies, Hunter Goodman has emerged as a beacon of hope and excitement. The young catcher earned his first All-Star selection during a remarkable first half, where he posted a .277 batting average alongside a .325 on-base percentage and a .517 slugging percentage. With 17 home runs and 52 RBIs to his name, questions loomed over whether the 25-year-old could maintain such impressive production throughout his inaugural full season in the majors.
However, Goodman has not only sustained his performance but has actually elevated it in the second half of the season. He has elevated his batting average to .299, coupled with a .342 on-base percentage and a striking .592 slugging percentage, accumulating an additional 12 home runs and 34 RBIs. His latest achievement—a booming home run against the San Diego Padres—has cemented his place in the annals of Rockies history.
Record-Breaking Performance
Goodman’s recent longball brought his season total to 27 home runs, a new record for home runs by a catcher in a single season for the Rockies. This accomplishment surpasses the previous record of 26 set by Wilin Rosario back in 2012, showcasing Goodman’s potential as a vital part of Colorado’s future.
Before stepping into the spotlight this season, Goodman had already shown glimpses of his power in the minor leagues, smashing 36 home runs in 2022 and 34 in 2023. In a brief stint last year, he displayed his capability by hitting 13 home runs in just 70 games, though he struggled with a .190 batting average and a .228 on-base percentage. This led to concerns that he might be a boom-or-bust type of player.
Yet, Goodman has dispelled those doubts, transforming into a well-rounded offensive threat. His current season stats reflect a .284 batting average and a .330 on-base percentage, with an OPS+ of 127—27 points above the league average. This progression illustrates that Goodman is not merely a power hitter but rather a versatile athlete capable of contributing across multiple facets of the game.
A Bright Future Ahead
In his first full Major League season as a primary catcher, Hunter Goodman has not only set the Rockies’ single-season record for home runs with 27 but has also showcased the potential to be a cornerstone for the franchise moving forward. The Rockies may have faced adversity this season, but Goodman’s historic achievements serve as a reminder that brighter days could lie ahead.
