ST. LOUIS — It’s impossible to overstate how much the lack of production at third base hurt the Rockies last season. They ranked well below the National League norm in average, on-base percentage and runs.
A potential solution, one that could reduce the club’s trade interest in the Mets’ David Wright and the Red Sox’s Kevin Youkilis, is emerging at the team’s Salt River Fields training site in Arizona.
Nolan Arenado is just 20 and hasn’t played an inning above Single-A ball in Modesto, Calif. A jump to the big leagues at some point next season, however, is no longer out of the question. Arenado leads the Arizona Fall League — considered a finishing school for top prospects — with 24 RBIs in 16 games.
“He’s the talk of the league,” Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd said. “He’s pushing the envelope. Players like this set their own timetable.”
Arenado led all Rockies minor-leaguers with 122 RBIs last season. Defensively, he’s made all the routine plays with a few web gems sprinkled in. A recent decision could accelerate his development. He will join Rockies star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki in Las Vegas to work out this winter.
“I am impressed by him,” Tulowitzki said. “He’s mature, confident, a hard worker. He puts in the time and wants to be good.”
Arenado’s ascension could influence the Rockies’ motivation to make a run at Wright and Youkilis. Colorado likes both players and will call about them. But the Rockies could be reluctant to give up young pitching or block Arenado’s path.
Footnote.
Tulowitzki was named to The Sporting News’ NL all-star team. “I would rather be playing in the World Series,” he said. “But it’s always cool to get recognized.”
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com
