As the Colorado Rockies prepare for the 2026 season, a close examination of their prospects reveals both promise and challenges. This analysis highlights five players whose performances in 2025 significantly enhanced their standing within the organization and five who face critical seasons ahead.
Promising Prospects on the Rise
A number of Rockies prospects have shown considerable improvement, making them key players to watch in the upcoming season.
Welinton Herrera, a left-handed reliever, was added to the Rockies’ 40-man roster in November 2025, protecting him from the Rule 5 Draft. The 24-year-old showcased impressive skills at High-A Spokane, posting a remarkable 0.49 ERA in 15 appearances. He continued to impress at Double-A with a 3.50 ERA in 37 games, earning a save for the National League during the Futures Game.
Another player to keep an eye on is Cole Carrigg, a versatile outfielder and shortstop drafted in the second round of 2023. Despite a challenging 2025 season at Double-A Hartford, where his strikeout rate climbed to 27%, Carrigg demonstrated potential with 15 home runs. If he can refine his approach at the plate, he may expedite his journey to Coors Field.
Jackson Cox, the Rockies’ second-round pick in 2022, faced setbacks early in his career due to Tommy John surgery. After missing the entire 2024 season, he rebounded in 2025 with a solid 3.71 ERA in 23 starts at Low-A Fresno. Continuing this momentum in 2026 could see Cox develop into a reliable mid-rotational pitcher.
Outfielder Jared Thomas, selected in the second round of 2024, demonstrated his capabilities in the Arizona Fall League, hitting .302 over 17 games. His performance continued in 2025, where he maintained a .300 average across both High-A and Double-A, showcasing speed on the bases and solid bat-to-ball skills.
Finally, Sterlin Thompson, the 31st overall pick in 2022, is poised for a major league debut. After an impressive season in Triple-A where he recorded a .296 batting average with a .392 on-base percentage, the Rockies added him to the 40-man roster in November. His left-handed bat could fill an important role in the outfield.
Players with Pressure to Perform
While some prospects have risen to the occasion, others find themselves under significant pressure as they approach the 2026 season.
Zac Veen, who debuted in 2025, struggled to find his footing in the majors, finishing with a disappointing .118 batting average in just 12 games. After spending the majority of the season in Triple-A Albuquerque, Veen must leverage this experience to secure a regular spot on the roster moving forward.
Another key player, Gabriel Hughes, was the 10th overall pick in 2022 and was added to the 40-man roster in November for protection ahead of the Rule 5 Draft. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023, Hughes returned to the mound in the Arizona Fall League in 2024 but struggled in 2025 with a 5.11 ERA in Triple-A. This season is crucial for him to demonstrate his readiness for the big leagues.
Outfielder Benny Montgomery, the eighth overall pick in 2021, has faced a series of injuries that have hindered his development. Missing significant time due to a groin injury in 2022, a knee issue in 2023, and a season-ending shoulder surgery in 2024, Montgomery needs to stay healthy and perform well in 2026 to regain his status among the top prospects.
First baseman and outfielder Charlie Condon, the third overall pick in 2024, also faces a pivotal season. After a rocky start to his professional career due to a bone spur and a wrist injury, Condon managed to reach Double-A and participate in the Arizona Fall League. With only 15 home runs in 124 games, he must demonstrate his power once again.
Finally, Ethan Holliday, the fourth overall pick in the previous draft, embodies the Rockies’ hopes for future competitiveness. With a skillset that suggests he could become a major league star, Holliday’s first full professional season is critical. He needs to excel at the Class-A levels to affirm his potential.
The coming season presents both opportunities and challenges for the Rockies’ prospects. With several players stepping up and others needing to prove their worth, the organization is keenly watching their development as they aim to rebuild and strengthen their roster. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how these young talents perform in 2026.
