On The Rox

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders are joined by Pat Graham of the Associated Press and Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle to discuss the 2024 National Baseball Hall of Fame ballot. Saunders, Graham and Slusser reveal their ballots, plus the four sportswriters discuss the Hall of Fame candidacies of various players. Will Todd Helton become the second Rockies player elected this year, joining Larry Walker? What makes Adrian Beltre a first-ballot slam dunk? What is the case for closer Billy Wagner and for infielder/outfielder Gary Sheffield in his final year on the ballot? Do second baseman Chase Utley and center fielder Andruw Jones deserve election? Plus, analyzing the "Big Hall" versus "Small Hall" philosophies and more analysis in a packed show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast presented by BetSafe Colorado, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down topics pertaining to Colorado's second-half forecast. Can right-hander Peter Lambert capitalize on a second chance in the Rockies' tattered rotation? What deals should GM Bill Schmidt make ahead of the August 1 trade deadline? What's to make of the Rockies' offensive woes -- Colorado managed just two hits in its last game -- especially considering the club ranks 12th of 15 National League teams in homers? These questions are addressed and more analysis in a packed show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast presented by BetSafe Colorado, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the ever-spiraling Rockies at the all-star break. The show includes discussion on Elias Diaz becoming the first all-star catcher in team history, the most surprising, most disappointing and best teams at midseason, and analysis on Futures Game participant and rising Rockies prospect Yanquiel Fernandez. Plus, who the Rockies might take at No. 9 overall in the first round of Sunday's MLB Draft in Seattle.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast presented by BetSafe Colorado, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down what Colorado fans can expect from the second half of another lost season. What are the silver linings to look for? Should fans expect GM Bill Schmidt to make more moves following the trade of Mike Moustakas to the Angels? Was Colorado's 25-1 defeat to Los Angeles the nadir? Will this club reach 100 losses for the first time in franchise history? Plus, a special guest interview with right hander German Marquez from the Colorado clubhouse. The right-hander talks about his surgery, his comeback, his team option at the end of the season and more.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast presented by BetSafe Colorado, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the Rockies who GM Bill Schmidt should consider trading ahead of the August 1 deadline. Plus, breaking down Kris Bryant's struggles in his second season as the top-paid player in LoDo and the promise of rookie shortstop Ezequiel Tovar in a packed show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast presented by BetSafe Colorado, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the Rockies' recent surge following one of the worst Aprils in club history. What's to make of the Rockies' hot streak (eight wins in their last 10 games) and a 4-2 road trip that included series victories over the Mets and Pirates? How excited should Rockies fans be about rookie outfielder Brenton Doyle? How worried should they be about Antonio Senzatela's arm injury in his second start of the season? What are storylines to watch in the upcoming homestand against the Phillies and Reds? This questions are addressed and more in a packed show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast presented by BetSafe Colorado, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down Colorado's ugly start through the first 30 games as the Rockies are on pace for 108 losses. With German Marquez headed for Tommy John surgery, where does the spiraling Rockies rotation go from here? Has Marquez thrown his last pitch in a Rockies uniform? Could Peter Lambert get called up again soon? What are silver linings from the first rough month-plus? Those questions are addressed plus insight into a fan survey for an upcoming Denver Post takeout story on fan disinterest in the club this year.

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders give their best-case and worst-case scenarios for the Rockies' 2023 season ahead of Thursday's Opening Day in San Diego. Will the Rockies have enough starting pitching depth to stay afloat? What can fans expect out of Kris Bryant after a lost debut season in LoDo last year? Does the bullpen have enough talent to hold up? These questions are addressed, plus much more analysis and predictions for Colorado's season.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders discuss observations from 2023 spring training in Scottsdale. What young prospects have stood out so far? Who can help prop up the Colorado bullpen in 2023? How is the Rockies' rotation shaping up early on, and what's to make of Kyle Freeland's assertion that the club "can't accept losing anymore"? What else has happened at Salt River Fields that fans need to know ahead of Saturday's Cactus League opener? Plus, a conversation with veteran closer Daniel Bard in a packed show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders preview 2023 Rockies spring training. Who are some new Rockies to keep tabs on in big-league camp? Who are the top prospects to watch at Salt River Fields? Why should Rockies fans be excited about spring training and the season after owner Dick Monfort said the club can "play .500 ball" this summer? Plus, a conversation with right-handed pitching prospect Case Williams (Douglas County High School) in a packed show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the Rockies a few weeks ahead of the start of spring training in Arizona. The duo talk about Todd Helton's near miss in the Class of 2023 for the National Baseball Hall of Fame, as the longtime Colorado first baseman came up 11 votes short of election. Plus, discussing the team's offseason signings (or lack thereof) and expectations for the 2023 Rockies. The show features special guest Ryan McMahon. The Rockies' third baseman talks about his 2022 season, the offseason and his hopes for this summer and more in a packed edition of the show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriter Kyle Newman moderates a discussion between three BBWAA voters on the 2023 National Baseball Hall of Fame ballot. Newman talks with Rockies beat writer Patrick Saunders, AP sportswriter Pat Graham and Cardinals beat writer Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch about the ballot. What is the Hall of Fame case for Rockies first baseman Todd Helton, and Cardinals/Phillies third baseman Scott Rolen? Will either player get in this year, or soon? Plus, all three voters discuss their philosophy when voting for the Hall of Fame, the hardest decisions on this year's ballot and more Cooperstown analysis in a packed show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the case for the Rockies' top two all-star candidates, first baseman C.J. Cron and right-hander Daniel Bard. Plus, discussion on the prospects representing the Rockies in the MLB Futures Game (outfielder Zac Veen and shortstop Ezequiel Tovar) and what Colorado should do at the August 2 trade deadline.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the state of the Rockies as the calendar turns to July. What's there to be optimistic about for last-place Colorado? What behind right-hander Chad Kuhl's success in 2022? What can Rockies fans expect from Kris Bryant, whose first year in LoDo has been marred by injury and a lack of production? Can third baseman Ryan McMahon get his hitting and his defense back on track? Those questions are addressed and more in a packed show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman, Patrick Saunders and Sean Keeler break down the reeling Rockies, who have lost nine of their last 11 games entering Wednesday. Why does Colorado have such a hard time against the Giants and Dodgers? What do the Rockies need from Kris Bryant, who is scheduled to return from a back injury on Friday? Those questions are addressed and more, plus breaking down the state of the rotation (6.08 ERA over the last 11 games).

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the Rockies as they head into a nine-game homestand. What went wrong during the 1-5 road trip to Arizona and San Francisco? Why are the Rockies playing such poor defense so far this year? What's the latest update on Kris Bryant's back injury, and what are the keys to bouncing back against the Royals, Giants and Mets during this homestand? Those questions are addressed and more.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down an array of topics as the Rockies embark on a road trip to Arizona and San Francisco. What's behind German Marquez's early struggles this year, and how can the right-hander turn it around? What are keys to success against the Diamondbacks and Giants over the next six games? When will Kris Bryant come off the injured list from his back injury? Those questions are addressed and more.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down an array of topics a couple weeks into the Rockies' season. What's to make of southpaw Kyle Freeland's five-year contract extension? Will second baseman Brendan Rodgers snap out of his early slump? Can first baseman C.J. Cron continue to be the team's premier power hitter? What does Colorado need to accomplish on its first true road trip of the season? These questions, and more, are addressed in a pack episode.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down Colorado's fast start to the 2022 season with series wins over the Dodgers and the Rangers. What's real and what's fake about Colorado's 4-1 record? Who on the roster is overachieving, and who is underachieving? How can the bullpen keep up the dominance it has displayed so far? What are key areas of improvement moving ahead into the season? Those questions are addressed and more, plus analysis on the upcoming homestand against the Cubs and Phillies.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders preview the Rockies' 30th opening day as Colorado takes on the Dodgers on Friday at Coors Field. Is the trio of Kyle Freeland, German Marquez and Antonio Senzatela ready to carry the pitching burden for the Rockies this series and all season? How will all-star left fielder Kris Bryant be received in his Rockies debut? What can fans expect out of center fielder Randal Grichuk? Those questions are addressed and more analysis, plus the duo breaks down 2022 predictions for the Rockies and all of MLB.

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the Rockies' plan at designated hitter and closer for the 2022 season. Plus, expectations for right-hander German Marquez coming off an all-star year, predicting what the Rockies' City Connect jerseys will look like, and debating the merits of the California rule.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the Rockies' array of roster moves during spring training. How does Colorado benefit from trading Raimel Tapia to the Blue Jays in exchange for slugging outfielder Randall Grichuk? What should fans think of the seven-year deal given to all-star Kris Bryant? What does Ryan McMahon's six-year contract extension say about GM Bill Schmidt's strategy? What's to make of Trevor Story signing with the Red Sox? Those questions are addressed, plus more analysis on free agency and spring training in a packed show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the end of the Major League Baseball lockout. What can fans expect from free agency now that the lockout's over? Will the Rockies make any major moves, and where will shortstop Trevor Story land? What are the details of amended spring training leading into Opening Day on April 8? Those questions are addressed and more in a packed edition of the show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the cancellation of MLB Opening Day as the lockout wiped out the first two series of the 2022 season. How many games will the Rockies and MLB lose before a new collective bargaining agreement is reached between the owners and the players association? Who is most to blame for baseball's latest black eye? What should fans think of the roles commissioner Rob Manfred and Rockies owner Dick Monfort have played in the lockout? How much will the lockout hurt baseball's already-dwindling fanbase and television viewership? These questions, and more, are addressed in a packed episode analyzing baseball's first labor-related work stoppage since 1994-95.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the ongoing MLB lockout and the likely delay for the start of 2022 spring training. Is there any way the lockout could affect the regular season? What are the main issues at stake between the owners and the Major League Baseball Players Association? What will it take for both sides to compromise on a new collective bargaining agreement? These questions are addressed in a packed show, plus more baseball analysis on Rockies' top prospect Zac Veen as well as what Colorado should do in free agency once the lockout ends.

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriter Kyle Newman moderates a discussion about the 2022 National Baseball Hall of Fame ballot with three BBWAA voters. Patrick Saunders, Mark Kiszla and The Associated Press' Pat Graham offer analysis on their respective ballots. What players were the hardest decisions this year? Where does each voter stand on "steroid guys" and why? Does Todd Helton, now in his fourth year on the ballot, have a chance at eventually making Cooperstown? Plus, a debate on whether all Hall of Fame voters should be required to reveal their ballots and predictions on what players could be elected this year after none were elected in 2021.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the MLB lockout, with the players and owners at odds in baseball's first work stoppage in a quarter-century. Why is the lockout occurring? Could games be lost in 2022? Newman and Saunders discuss that topic, and also Jon Gray signing with the Rangers, Daniel Bard and Tyler Kinley re-signing with the Rockies, and the latest on Trevor Story's free agency.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down an array of offseason topics. What's the current market like for right-hander Jon Gray and shortstop Trevor Story? What free agents could GM Bill Schmidt target? Could Ryan McMahon be Colorado's shortstop in 2022? What prospects should the Rockies protect in the Rule 5 Draft? Will there be a lockout this year? These questions, and more analysis, are addressed in a packed show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders discuss a host of baseball topics with the World Series in mid-swing. The duo discusses the emergence of former Rockies southpaw Tyler Matzek in the Braves' bullpen during their World Series run, and give their thoughts on Atlanta coaches Walt Weiss and Eric Young. Plus, analysis on the Rockies' recent coaching changes, Ryan McMahon's chances at winning the Gold Glove over Nolan Arenado and more.

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down an array of topics with the Rockies' 2021 season fresh in the rearview. What's to make of Colorado hiring Bill Schmidt as GM? How should fans rate the deals handed out to right-hander Antonio Senzatela and first baseman C.J. Cron? What's the latest update on Trevor Story's free agency forecast? Who needs to break out for the Rockies to contend in 2022? Those questions, plus analysis on Nolan Arenado's postseason struggles, are addressed and more.

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the final stretch of the Rockies' 2021 season. Can Colorado play spoiler against the Dodgers and Giants at Coors Field as those teams vie for the National League West crown? Plus, analysis on Trevor Story's LoDo swan song, how the Rockies' minor-league affiliates fared this year, breaking down the team's recent road surge, Larry Walker's number retirement this weekend and more analysis.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down Colorado's season full of juxtapositions. How can Colorado be so good at home (MLB-best 43 wins at Coors Field) but so bad on the road (MLB-worst 14 wins)? Plus, analysis on Colorado's upcoming road trip to Chicago, Los Angeles and Arlington, and what to make of right-hander Jon Gray's future with the Rockies.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the Rockies' moves -- or lack thereof -- at the 2021 MLB trade deadline. Why didn't the Rockies trade all-star shortstop Trevor Story? What's to make of the club's trade to get back right-handed prospect Case Williams? How should fans feel about the club's identity after the deadline? Those questions, and more, are addressed.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders preview the second half of the Rockies' 2021 season. What's the likelihood that shortstop Trevor Story is traded before the deadline, and same goes for right-hander Jon Gray? What are reasons to go out to Coors Field to see Colorado down the stretch of the season, considering the team isn't contention? Those questions, and more, are addressed.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders recap the 2021 Home Run Derby and MLB All-Star Game at Coors Field. What were takeaways from the derby, won again by Mets' slugger Pete Alonso? And what about the Midsummer Classic, where the American League won for an eighth straight time and Blue Jays phenom Vladimir Guerrero Jr. took home the MVP? Plus, commentary on the Play Ball Park, the all-star uniforms and the all-star weekend as a whole.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders analyze the Rockies' woes away from Coors Field this year as the team is on pace to break the MLB record for lowest road winning percentage in a single season. Plus, commentary on interim general manager Bill Schmidt's candidacy for the permanent job as well as an update on the trade status of shortstop Trevor Story.

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders preview the 2021 Home Run Derby and MLB All-Star Game at Coors Field. Who is the favorite in Monday's derby, and how will Rockies shortstop Trevor Story fare? What are storylines to watch and locals to look out for heading into the all-star game? Those questions are addressed, plus much more analysis.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders discuss the return of Nolan Arenado to Coors Field in a Cardinals uniform. With St. Louis not faring much better than Colorado, when will Arenado get the postseason relevance he's been looking for? Plus, thoughts on German Marquez's one-hitter against the Pirates and the right-hander's recent stretch of dominance (3-0 with 0.39 ERA over his last three starts).

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders discuss Charlie Blackmon's legacy with the Rockies after he passed Larry Walker for second on the club's all-time hit list. Will Chuck Nazty be on the Rockies' Mount Rushmore when it's all said and done? Plus, discussion on what interim GM Bill Schmidt should do at the trade deadline, and the potential return he needs to get back in exchange for shortstop Trevor Story.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders discuss the recent surge by the Colorado rotation. Plus, analyzing the team's contrasting play at home and on the road, injury updates regarding Trevor Story and Chris Owings, and breakdowns on right-handed relievers Daniel Bard and Yency Almonte.

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the Rockies' road woes in the first two months of the season. What are the odds that Colorado breaks the MLB record for lowest road winning percentage in a single season? Plus, analysis on prospects to know across all four levels of Colorado's farm system and previewing the upcoming homestand against the Rangers and Athletics.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down Bud Black. How is the manager holding up amid Colorado's last-place season so far, including dealing with the Rockies' anemic 2-17 road record? Is Black equipped to lead a young, prospect-laden team still searching for an identity? Will Black -- or should Black -- get fired if the Rockies keep on pace toward 100-plus losses? Those questions, and more insight, are addressed in this week's show.

In this edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the performance of the Rockies' rotation through the first six weeks of the 2021 season. The duo analyzes Chi Chi Gonzalez, German Marquez, Antonio Senzatela, Jon Gray and Austin Gomber, with additional insight into Kyle Freeland's rehab process.

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders preview Colorado's three-game series in St. Louis as the Rockies face Nolan Arenado for the first time. Plus, the duo breaks down interim GM Bill Schmidt's initial comments and the 80-game suspension for infield prospect Colton Welker.

In this episode of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders discuss reasons to smile amid the Rockies' dismal last-place performance. From Ryan McMahon to Raimel Tapia and beyond, the duo looks at the positive side of what very well may end up being a 100-loss team.

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders discuss Charlie Blackmon's slow offensive start in 2021. Entering Thursday, the all-star outfielder is slashing .176/.309/.294 with just one homer, and has been moved down in the lineup. Is Blackmon's poor hitting so far an aberration, or an indication of a larger trend that Rockies fans need to be worried about?

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders discuss Jeff Bridich's resignation as the Rockies' GM. What legacy does Bridich leave in LoDo? Who are top candidates for the interim GM position, and what strategy should Colorado take when hiring a new GM? Plus, analysis on owner Dick Monfort, Greg Feasel being named club president and more.

In this packed edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders discuss the Rockies' trade of Nolan Arenado to the Cardinals. What does the trade say about the state of the franchise, and all-star shortstop Trevor Story's future in Colorado? What can be made of the disastrous press conference held by owner Dick Monfort and general manager Jeff Bridich? Do the Rockies have any chance of contending in 2021? What is the value of Colorado's return in the trade? Those hot-button questions, and more, are addressed.

In this packed hot stove edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down Nolan Arenado trade possibilities and discuss Hall of Fame voting. Will the Cardinals come up with a deal to get Arenado? Should voters be casting ballots for Barry Bonds and Roger Clemens to get into Cooperstown? Will GM Jeff Bridich do anything in what's been a quiet offseason for the Rockies? These questions are addressed, plus much more analysis.

In this hot stove edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the Rockies' offseason and discuss Todd Helton's Hall of Fame candidacy. With the moves the Padres have made, how far are the Rockies behind the Dodgers and San Diego within the division? Considering the voting trajectory this year, does Helton have a legitimate shot to join Larry Walker in Cooperstown? What potential deals does GM Jeff Bridich and Colorado have up its sleeve this winter, and will Trevor Story get a multi-year deal? Those questions, and more, are addressed.

In this hot stove edition of the On The Rox podcast, Denver Post sportswriters Kyle Newman and Patrick Saunders break down the Nolan Arenado and Trevor Story trade rumors. Would general manager Jeff Bridich deal the all-star third baseman to the rival Dodgers? What other teams could be options in an Arenado trade? Similarly, what does all-star shortstop Trevor Story's immediate future hold in LoDo? Those questions, and more, are addressed.