Purple Row Newsletter: March 19-22, 2026

We’re less than a week away from the start of the 2026 MLB season. Purple Row has been gearing up for Opening Day and thinking about a pretty terrific World Baseball Classic. (Congratulations to Team Venezuela!)

Rockpiles

• A look at public perception of the Rockies through the lens of fantasy — Since it’s draft season, Cory Cohen’s investigation of the Rockies roster though fantasy baseball is timely.
• The Coors Tax and Kyle Freeland’s WAR problem — James Riggenbach has a fascinating look at the ways in which WAR fails to capture what makes Freeland a good pitcher.

Interviews

• Stone science: Behind the scenes with the Rockies manager of performance science — This is a story @joellemilholm.bsky.social has worked on for over a year. Here’s what she learned about Brandon Stone, the specialist helping the Rockies with their body mechanics.
• Ryan Ritter diversifies his on-field portfolio— @reneedechert.com has the details.

Analysis

• National League West preview — Zeke Perez Jr concludes our overview of the National League.

News

• Colorado Rockies announce additional roster moves — It’s official: Charlie Condon will not be the Rockies first baseman on Opening Day.

Our survey says!

The Rockies are looking for a second radio voice to work with Jack Corrigan. Throughout spring training, four other broadcasters have auditioned for the job. @sammieb27.bsky.social asked Purple Row readers to weigh in, and here’s what they said:

Read more here.

And we’re curious to get your take: Who do you think will be the next addition to the Rockies radio booth?

Predictions!

It’s that time of year when we predict what we think will happen during 2026. To vote, click here.

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Look for our next update to publish on Wednesday.

Until then, let’s go Rockies!

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