SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Spring training is a roller-coaster ride. The rush of early impressions is quickly replaced by the reality of big-league talent, or the lack of it.
Armed with that caveat, I offer up these bold predictions:
NL MVP: There is no question in my mind it will be Nolan Arenado, as long as the third baseman stays healthy. I don’t think he’ll match his 42 homers from last year, but he’ll hit close to .300 and he’l increase his .323 on-base percentage by 20 points. Oh year, he’ll also win his fourth consecutive Gold Glove.
Maybe that will satisfy all of the seamheads who don’t know that Arenado is one of the top-five all-around players in baseball.
Best starter: Right-hander Chad Bettis, without question. He’s got the toughness to compete at Coors Field and the repertoire to thrive on the road. Look for a 15-win season and an ERA in the low 4’s.
Best reliever: Left-hander Jake McGee, who will close at least until Adam Ottavino returns from Tommy John surgery.
Biggest concern: The starting rotation. Jon Gray faces more growing pains, I’m worried about Jorge De La Rosa’s less-than-splendid spring, Jordan Lyles is the definition of a No. 5 starter and Tyler Chatwood’s twice rebuilt right elbow is a concern.
Story’s story: He earned the starting job at shortstop and I’m glad the Rockies didn’t delay his debut. I see peaks and valley, but ultimately a .275 average and about 20 home runs.
Weiss’s future: Unless the Rockies do an embarrassing pratfall early, I think he’ll last the season as manager. After that, however, I think Weiss’ future is in doubt.
CarGo’s future: Will Carlos Gonzalez get traded in July? I believe so, unless the Rockies are in contention, which I don’t believe they will be.
Final record: Make mine 72-90.
