The Colorado Rockies made a bold move on Sunday by relieving manager Bud Black of his duties, despite securing a rare 9-3 victory against the Padres. The decision, announced by team owner Dick Monfort, marked a significant shift for a franchise that has avoided in-season managerial changes since 2009.
Third-base coach Warren Schaeffer was promoted to interim manager, while bench coach Mike Redmond was also dismissed. Former Rockies manager Clint Hurdle stepped in to take over Redmond’s duties, relinquishing his interim hitting coach role in the process. The changes come after a historically poor 7-33 start, putting the team just above the worst 40-game records in MLB history.
Frustration Mounts as Rockies Ownership, Players Acknowledge Years of Decline and Struggles
Monfort described the Rockies’ recent performances as “unacceptable,” highlighting a growing impatience with the team’s prolonged struggles. Colorado has suffered back-to-back 100-plus loss seasons, and their latest start has only intensified fan and internal frustration.
Players like third baseman Ryan McMahon acknowledged the team’s share of the blame, noting that while coaching changes happen, it’s ultimately the players’ responsibility to perform. The sentiment echoed throughout the clubhouse, where many expressed a sense of loss and accountability following Black’s departure.
Rockies Shake Up Coaching Staff After Historic Slump, Turning to Warren Schaeffer to Lead Midseason ResetBud Black was hired in 2017 and initially guided the Rockies to back-to-back postseason appearances. However, the team hasn’t posted a winning season since 2018. Colorado’s decline has been attributed to poor free-agent decisions, injuries to key signings like Kris Bryant, and the erosion of a once-promising pitching staff.
General manager Bill Schmidt stated that the decision to make the managerial change was made internally before the team’s upcoming road trip and was not directly tied to Sunday’s win or Saturday’s 21-0 loss. Nonetheless, the timing reflects a sense of urgency to try and salvage a historically poor season.
Players Mourn Loss, Schaeffer Embraces Challenge in Rockies’ Leadership Transition Phase
Veterans like Kyle Freeland and Germán Márquez spoke highly of Black and Redmond, expressing deep personal respect and disappointment over the situation. Freeland, who had previously voiced frustration over the team’s performance, noted that changes were inevitable given the circumstances.
Márquez, who pitched Sunday’s win and predates Black’s arrival, emphasized Black’s supportive nature and impact on his development. Despite the emotional toll, players seemed to recognize the necessity of a new direction as the team seeks a reset.
Warren Schaeffer, a former Rockies minor leaguer and seasoned coach in the organization, steps into a challenging interim role. Known for his strong communication skills and player rapport, Schaeffer now has an opportunity to stabilize a faltering squad.
Supporting staff changes include the reassignment of Andy González to third-base coach and the additions of Jordan Pacheco and Nic Wilson to the major league hitting staff. While expectations remain low for a postseason turnaround, the Rockies are signaling a commitment to restructuring and long-term improvement.
