The Colorado Rockies are contemplating further changes in their front office as they prepare for the upcoming MLB draft. The team recently replaced manager Bud Black with Warren Schaeffer and promoted Walker Monfort to executive vice president. As they head into their game on July 11, 2025, with a dismal record of 21-72, the Rockies are on track for potentially the worst season in modern baseball history.
There is increasing speculation surrounding the future of general manager Bill Schmidt. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, discussions within the industry suggest that Schmidt’s position may be in jeopardy. Having served as the head of the scouting department for over two decades, Schmidt transitioned to his current role in 2021. Recent events in Major League Baseball, particularly the firings of Mike Rizzo, president of baseball operations for the Washington Nationals, and manager Dave Martinez, have prompted other teams, including the Rockies, to reconsider their leadership structures.
The Rockies face critical decisions ahead of the draft and the trade deadline, which could have lasting implications for the franchise. While the organization has demonstrated a willingness to make bold moves this season, the potential impact of such changes on the current campaign remains questionable. A hasty dismissal of Schmidt prior to Sunday may not yield the desired results, nor would a mid-season change likely alter the trajectory of the season.
The players in the clubhouse may interpret such actions as an attempt to shift the organization’s standards. Rosenthal advocates for hiring an outside candidate to lead baseball operations, someone capable of overcoming the unique challenges of building a competitive roster at Coors Field. The high altitude of the stadium significantly influences the team’s offensive and pitching dynamics, complicating efforts to achieve sustained success.
Historically, the Rockies have only made the playoffs five times since their inception, and they are poised for their 13th losing season in the last 15 years. The team is banking on a successful draft, particularly hoping to secure coveted top prospect Ethan Holliday with the No. 4 overall pick. This decision could bring a spark of optimism to an organization in dire need of revitalization. If Holliday is unavailable, however, the choice made may carry even more weight.
A persistent issue for the Rockies has been their inability to develop Major League talent within their farm system. With Schmidt at the helm of that department for many years, he bears some responsibility for the franchise’s lack of success in recent seasons. The Rockies hold four selections in the top 77 of this year’s draft, placing significant importance on these picks. As the organization appears willing to allow Schmidt to oversee the draft, uncertainty remains regarding his long-term future.
As the Rockies navigate this pivotal moment in their history, the decisions made in the coming weeks could define the franchise’s direction for years to come. For ongoing updates and insights into the Rockies, fans can visit Rockies On SI.
