Josh Byrnes has officially stepped into the role of general manager for the Colorado Rockies, leaving behind a successful tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Byrnes, who spent 11 seasons as the Dodgers’ senior vice president of baseball operations, won three World Series titles, including consecutive championships in 2024 and 2025. Known for having one of the highest payrolls in Major League Baseball, he was instrumental in developing a strong farm system.
The decision to join the Rockies, who finished last season with a dismal 119 losses, stemmed from two primary motivations. First, Byrnes was drawn to the “intriguing challenge” of revitalizing a struggling franchise. Second, he was eager to collaborate with Paul DePodesta, the new president of baseball operations, with whom he has maintained a professional relationship since their early careers in Cleveland’s front office during the mid-1990s.
“It was a hard decision,” Byrnes stated during a virtual introductory session with Colorado media. “I loved every day with the Dodgers and have a tremendous amount of respect for the people. But I’ve known Paul for 30 years, and he and I have always embraced challenges. I think he’s brilliant. I think there’s a lot we can both bring to this, and also not just tell stories about what we’ve done, but create a new future for this franchise.”
As Byrnes prepares to join DePodesta at the winter meetings in Orlando, Florida, he acknowledges the need to assess the current state of the Rockies. He is aware of the formidable task ahead.
“Obviously, 119 losses, there’s no sugarcoating it,” Byrnes remarked. “There’s a lot of work to do. But if you really talk to people around the game, there’s quite a bit of intrigue in trying to solve it here.”
The Rockies have often been perceived as lagging behind in areas such as analytics and coaching compared to other franchises. Nevertheless, DePodesta assured that the organization is committed to modernizing its operations.
“There’s been real energy behind investing in the baseball operation,” DePodesta said. “We all realize that it’s a necessity in order to compete in today’s game. Josh and I have both been in situations with immense resources, and we’ve also been in situations that have had lesser resources. We feel very comfortable with what’s available here. The mindset is that there’s a desire to invest pretty heavily on the baseball side.”
For Rockies fans, who have witnessed seven consecutive losing seasons, Byrnes represents a beacon of hope.
“I wouldn’t come in here without some optimism and confidence that we can get there,” he stated. “The excitement around those teams in Denver for winning is something you can feel. We want to be part of that, without a doubt.”
Roster adjustments are also underway as the Rockies continue to refine their team. Recently, the organization waived catcher Drew Romo, the 35th overall pick in the 2020 draft, who was claimed by the Baltimore Orioles. Right-handed pitcher Anthony Molina, also waived, was picked up by the Atlanta Braves.
Romo, who struggled with a batting average of just .167 over 19 major league games, became expendable following the emergence of catcher Hunter Goodman, who not only became an All-Star but also made history as the first Rockies catcher to earn a Silver Slugger Award last season. Additionally, backup catcher Braxton Fulford surpassed Romo on the depth chart, further solidifying the need for change.
In another notable move, the Rockies non-tendered first baseman Michael Toglia, their top pick in the 2019 draft. Toglia, who has faced challenges with strikeouts, was part of the team’s broader strategy to reshape the roster.
As the Rockies embark on this new chapter with Byrnes at the helm, the focus will be on building a competitive team that can inspire its fanbase and reclaim its place in the league. The upcoming winter meetings will be crucial in setting the foundation for this ambitious endeavor.
