San Francisco Giants: Keeping up with the NL West

Colorado Rockies

2018 Record: 91-72

2019 Vegas Prediction: 82-80

Players in for 2019: None

Players out for 2019: Adam Ottavino, Carlos Gonzalez (?), D.J. LeMahieu

This could very well be the last go around for Nolan Arenado in a Rockies uniform, which, one would think, likely closes the window of contention for the Rockies. Their young pitching staff continued to take steps forward in 2018 and with a bullpen stocked full of strong options, they actually slightly underperformed.

Now in 2019, is it time the Rockies finally put it all together? It would require more than just Nolan Arenado to provide offense. The absence of D.J. LaMahieu will provide a bit of an OBP problem but if either Brendan Rodgers comes up to play 2B (MLBPipeline’s 10th ranked prospect), or Garrett Hampson can keep a strangle hold on the position in Spring, the Rockies may have the ability to pry the window open a little bit longer. If they can provide a nice OBP spark for the Rockies, then guys like Desmond, Blackmon, Story and Arenado should be able to carry the torch with the big hits.

They’re going to be the biggest contender to the Dodgers for the division crown in 2019, so don’t be shocked if they end up taking it to the Dodgers to win the Division. They’re pretty sound all over the place, and will certainly be hoping to cash in on Arenado’s presence in their lineup if it’s for the final time.