2012 Colorado Rockies: age, experience the “X Factor?” | News

DENVER — Last year, expectations for the Colorado Rockies were as high as their namesake Rocky Mountains, but there’s no such notion this year.

General Manager Dan O’Dowd, determined to change the “chemistry” in the locker room, made numerous roster changes. Only nine players remain from last year’s opening day roster and only four starters.

With the turnover, the team aged faster than a father on prom night, going from an average age of 28 to 32.

Overall, the 2012 Rockies have more questions than is asked on a Jeopardy show.

Can a 36-year-old Marco Scutaro make an impact and be effective in the lead-off spot?

Will Dexter Fowler become even nearly the talent he’s been expected to be?

Can Carlos Gonzalez stay healthy and return to his 2010 season form?

In addition to being an All-Star shortstop, is Troy Tulowitzki mature enough to be a team leader?

Can Todd Helton hold-up for another season and be effective?

Is Michael Cuddyer worth his $31.5 million contract?

Who’s catching today? Who’s playing third base tomorrow?

The collective 2011 record of the starting rotation of Jeremy Guthrie, Jamie Moyer (who went 9-9 in 2010 – the last season he was active), Juan Nicasio, Jhoulys Chacin and Drew Pomeranz was 35-45 with a total of six complete games.

Little relief appears to be in sight as the relievers had a collective 11 saves last season.

Play Ball!

Projected Top Lineup:

1. 2B Marco Scutaro,
2. CF Dexter Fowler
3. LF Carlos Gonzalez
4. SS Troy Tulowitzki
5. 1B Todd Helton
6. RF Michael Cuddyer
7. C Ramon Hernandez
8. 3B Chris Nelson
9. Pitcher