In a move that has left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads, the Colorado Rockies have decided to part ways with first baseman Warming Bernabel, a player who showed immense promise during his rookie campaign. But here's where it gets controversial... Was this the right decision for a team looking to rebuild after a disastrous 43-119 season? Let’s dive into the details and explore what this means for the Rockies’ future.
Bernabel, a 23-year-old talent signed out of the Dominican Republic in 2018 for $900,000, made his MLB debut in 2025 and quickly turned heads. He earned National League Player of the Week honors in his first full week, batting .252 with four home runs and 14 RBIs in 40 games. His story is particularly inspiring, as he overcame a harrowing incident where he sustained gunshot wounds during a robbery attempt in the Dominican Republic. Despite these challenges, Bernabel not only recovered but also made it to the big leagues, becoming a symbol of resilience for many fans.
However, the Rockies waived Bernabel on Saturday, and he cleared waivers, opting for free agency rather than accepting an assignment to Triple-A Albuquerque. This marks the second time Bernabel has been removed from the Rockies’ 40-man roster, the first being just before the 2024 season to make room for utility man Alan Trejo. And this is the part most people miss... While Bernabel’s departure opens up a roster spot, it also raises questions about the Rockies’ commitment to developing homegrown talent.
The Rockies’ offseason moves have been significant, leaving their Major League roster at 37 players—three below the limit—heading into the MLB Winter Meetings in Orlando, Florida. New president of baseball operations Paul DePodesta and general manager Josh Byrnes have emphasized the talent within the organization, but actions speak louder than words. Since the end of last season, the Rockies have moved away from several key homegrown players, including first-round picks Michael Toglia (now a free agent), lefty pitcher Ryan Rolison (traded to the Braves), and catcher Drew Romo (claimed by the Orioles). Additionally, righty pitcher Anthony Molina, a 2023 Rule 5 Draft pick, was claimed by the Braves.
Here’s where it gets even more intriguing... With Bernabel and Toglia gone, the Rockies could pursue a first baseman through free agency or a trade. However, all eyes are on Charlie Condon, the Rockies’ No. 2 prospect and MLB Pipeline’s No. 61 overall prospect. Condon, 22, was the third overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft and is coming off a strong first full pro season, including an impressive performance in the Arizona Fall League. Will he be the next big thing for the Rockies, or is the team rushing to fill a void?
The Rockies’ current roster includes two players who made their Major League debuts in 2025: Blaine Crim, who finished the year playing regularly for the Rockies after debuting with the Rangers, and Troy Johnston, who broke in with the Marlins and was claimed after the season. These additions highlight the team’s efforts to infuse new talent, but at what cost to player development and team chemistry?
Now, let’s spark some debate... Is the Rockies’ strategy of moving away from homegrown players a necessary step toward rebuilding, or are they undervaluing the potential of players like Bernabel? Could Bernabel’s resilience and early success have been a cornerstone for the team’s morale and fan engagement? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Whether you agree or disagree, one thing is clear: the Rockies are at a crossroads, and their decisions now will shape their future for years to come.
