Rockies Shake Up Coaching Staff Following Dismal Start to 2025 Season
The Colorado Rockies, mired in a disastrous start to the 2025 Major League Baseball season, have announced a significant overhaul of their coaching staff. The team revealed that they have parted ways with manager Bud Black and bench coach Mike Redmond, signaling a dramatic attempt to reverse their fortunes. This move marks the second managerial change in the league within a week, highlighting the growing pressure on teams to deliver results.
Warren Schaeffer, the team’s third base coach, has been appointed as the interim manager, tasked with steering the Rockies through this turbulent period. Veteran baseball figure Clint Hurdle will step in as the interim bench coach, bringing his experience to the dugout in hopes of providing a much-needed spark.
The decision to dismiss Black, who had been at the helm since 2017, underscores the severity of the Rockies’ struggles. Team owner Dick Monfort issued a statement expressing his disappointment with the team’s performance.
"Our play so far this season, especially coming off the last two seasons, has been unacceptable," Monfort stated. "Our fans deserve better, and we are capable of better. While we all share responsibility in how this season has played out, these changes are necessary."
Monfort emphasized the organization’s commitment to using the remainder of the 2025 season to identify areas for improvement and conduct a thorough evaluation of all aspects of their operations. The goal is to "properly turn the page into the next chapter of Rockies Baseball."
The Rockies’ struggles have been glaring, marked by lopsided losses and an inability to compete consistently. A particularly embarrassing 21-0 defeat at the hands of the San Diego Padres served as a stark reminder of the team’s shortcomings. While they managed to secure a 9-3 victory against the Padres on Sunday, it was only their seventh win of the season in 40 games.
Opposing teams have consistently exploited the Rockies’ weaknesses, contributing to a staggering run differential of -128. The team has only managed to score 133 runs this season, further highlighting their offensive struggles.
The Rockies’ postseason drought extends back to the 2018 season, which also marked the last time the team finished with a winning record. In recent years, the team has languished at the bottom of the standings, posting records of 61-101 last season and 59-103 in 2023.
Bud Black’s tenure as manager spanned more than eight years, during which he compiled a record of 544-690. While he was respected within the organization and by players, the team’s lack of success in recent years ultimately led to his dismissal.
The Rockies’ decision to fire Black follows the Pittsburgh Pirates’ earlier dismissal of manager Derek Shelton, underscoring the growing impatience among MLB teams with underperforming managers.
The appointment of Warren Schaeffer as interim manager presents him with a significant challenge. Schaeffer, who has been with the Rockies organization in various coaching roles, will be tasked with stabilizing the team and fostering a more competitive environment.
Clint Hurdle’s arrival as interim bench coach brings a wealth of experience to the Rockies’ dugout. Hurdle, a former manager with the Rockies, Pirates, and Kansas City Royals, is known for his leadership and ability to connect with players. His presence could provide a valuable boost to the team’s morale and strategic decision-making.
The Rockies’ front office will now embark on a search for a permanent manager to lead the team beyond the 2025 season. The next manager will face the daunting task of rebuilding the Rockies into a competitive force in the National League West.
The Rockies’ struggles extend beyond just the on-field performance. The team’s farm system, once a source of promising young talent, has not produced impact players in recent years. Addressing the development of young players will be crucial for the Rockies’ long-term success.
The Rockies’ situation is further complicated by their home ballpark, Coors Field, which is known for its hitter-friendly environment. While the ballpark can be an advantage for the Rockies’ offense, it also poses challenges for the pitching staff.
The Rockies’ ownership group will need to make significant investments in both player personnel and infrastructure to turn the franchise around. This includes improving the team’s scouting and player development departments, as well as potentially pursuing upgrades to Coors Field.
The Rockies’ decision to shake up their coaching staff is a clear indication that the organization recognizes the need for change. Whether these changes will be enough to spark a turnaround remains to be seen, but it is a necessary first step in addressing the team’s many challenges. The Rockies’ fanbase, long known for its passion and loyalty, will be watching closely to see if the team can finally deliver on its promise.
The interim leadership of Schaeffer and Hurdle offers a chance to evaluate new strategies and player combinations, potentially uncovering hidden talent within the existing roster. While a complete turnaround in 2025 may be a long shot, the opportunity to identify future building blocks and establish a new direction is invaluable. The Rockies’ journey back to competitiveness will require patience, strategic decision-making, and a commitment to developing a winning culture. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the organization can effectively "turn the page" and embark on a more promising chapter in Rockies Baseball.
