Colorado Rockies Part Ways with Manager Bud Black Following Shocking 21-0 Loss to San Diego: What’s Next for the Team?

DENVER (AP) — The Colorado Rockies have decided to move on from Bud Black, who was their winningest manager. The team let him go after a shocking 7-33 start to the season, which marks one of the worst records in Major League Baseball history. Following a recent 9-3 victory against the San Diego Padres, the Rockies announced that Warren Schaeffer, the third base coach, will step in as interim manager. This change came after a disheartening 21-0 loss to the same team the night before.

Owner Dick Monfort expressed disappointment with the team’s performance, stating, “Our fans deserve better.” Currently, the Rockies are sitting 19.5 games behind the first-place team in the NL West, having been outscored by 128 runs this season. Only one team since 1900, the 2023 Oakland Athletics, has had a worse run differential at this stage.

General Manager Bill Schmidt also chimed in, stating, “We have to get better and move forward.” Despite earlier backing Black, Schmidt acknowledged the need for a shift after the team’s dismal performance. Black had once led the Rockies to back-to-back playoff appearances in 2017 and 2018, but the team has struggled significantly since then, with two consecutive seasons of over 100 losses. Their current winning percentage stands at just .349.

Since joining the Rockies, Black posted a record of 544-690 over nine seasons. He had gained respect for his calm demeanor and was expected to guide a youthful roster. This roster includes beacons of hope like Gold Glove winners Ezequiel Tovar and Brenton Doyle, along with promising pitcher Chase Dollander, who was picked ninth overall in the 2023 draft.

However, the season has unraveled quickly. The Rockies allowed 10 or more runs in four consecutive games, culminating in Saturday’s shocking score. Pitcher Kyle Freeland remarked about the changes, “Clearly some changes needed to be made to see if we can start turning this thing around.”

The Rockies’ payroll this season sits at $125.5 million, ranking 20th in the league, yet the team made no significant moves to bolster their struggling roster. Injuries haven’t helped, especially for Kris Bryant, who is currently on the injured list with a severe back condition. He signed a massive $182 million contract before the 2022 season, only to struggle with injuries since.

Warren Schaeffer, who has been part of the Rockies organization for a decade, will lead the team starting Monday against the Texas Rangers. Schmidt believes Schaeffer can help develop young talent and turn the team’s fortunes around.

As the Rockies navigate this challenging season, they will need to focus on player development and consistent performance. The path forward won’t be easy, but the changes aim to bring fresh energy and hope for both fans and players alike.

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