Rockies Spark Offseason Speculation with Interest in Josh Naylor
The Colorado Rockies are making waves in the offseason chatter, notably with their surprising link to free-agent infielder Josh Naylor. After a season marred by record losses, the Rockies are poised for an upward trajectory in 2026. While the team boasts some promising young talent, the addition of experienced players is essential as they seek to revitalize their roster.
Front Office Overhaul and Strategic Decisions Ahead
As the Rockies navigate this pivotal offseason, they’re simultaneously searching for a new General Manager and President of Baseball Operations. The front office’s focus has reportedly narrowed to two key candidates: Amiel Sawdaye, the Senior Vice President and Assistant GM of the Arizona Diamondbacks, and Matt Forman from the Cleveland Guardians. The incoming GM will face a substantial challenge in shaping the team’s future, especially with Warren Schaffer currently serving in an interim managerial role.
Once a permanent GM is established, the organization will pivot to roster construction and free agency—an area where they may take an aggressive approach. The potential pursuit of Naylor signals that the Rockies are keen on making impactful moves this winter.
Naylor’s Emergence as a Power-Hitting Option
In the latest rankings of free agents, MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand lists Josh Naylor as the 15th most sought-after player, with Colorado identified as a possible landing spot. Naylor, who enjoyed a breakout season, hit 20 home runs, drove in 92 RBIs, and showcased remarkable speed with 30 stolen bases, all while maintaining an .815 OPS. His performance was further underscored by his solid defensive skills at first base and impressive bat-to-ball ability, placing him in the 91st percentile for strikeout percentage at 13.7%. However, he does have a tendency to chase pitches outside the strike zone, with a chase rate of 37.1%, ranking him in the league’s bottom ten percent.
After being traded to the Seattle Mariners midseason, Naylor played a crucial role in their playoff run, contributing significantly in the American League Championship Series. In 12 postseason games, he batted .340, hitting three home runs and driving in five RBIs. Over the past five years, he has consistently hit at least 17 home runs each season, showcasing his power with a total of 252 extra-base hits across 745 games.
A Fit for Coors Field and the Rockies’ Needs
At just 29 years old, Naylor still has plenty of potential to offer. His power-hitting capabilities would undoubtedly thrive at Coors Field, a venue known for favoring hitters. However, a crucial question remains: will Naylor be inclined to join a team currently in a rebuilding phase? While a return to the Mariners remains a viable option, should the Rockies secure his services, he would provide the middle-of-the-order bat they desperately need.
As the offseason unfolds, Naylor’s situation will be one to watch, particularly as the Rockies look to make significant strides in rebuilding their franchise. The pursuit of key players like him could signal a new era for Colorado baseball.
