The Colorado Rockies could have a quietly valuable piece to move this winter, and it may not be the name most people circle first.
Paul DePodesta’s first offseason decisions as president of baseball operations are expected to come more through trades than free agency, especially with the challenge of luring pitchers to Denver and Coors Field. That sets up a more interesting market on the roster side, where a few players could draw real attention if Colorado makes them available.
Hunter Goodman is one possibility. The catcher’s breakout power bat has made him one of the bigger questions on the roster: do the Rockies cash in on his rise, or keep the backstop after he became a middle-of-the-lineup force? If DePodesta decides to shop him, Goodman could bring back a strong return.
Another name worth watching is Willi Castro, whom Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report identified as a trade chip Colorado could use to address other needs. Utility infielders are in demand, and Castro fits that mold almost perfectly.
Over the last three seasons, he has posted at least 10 home runs and 10 stolen bases while handling four different positions. That kind of versatility has value, especially for contenders looking for depth and flexibility.
Castro is also carrying a $7.3 million contract for 2027, and that should only add to his appeal. A market for a player like that could get crowded in a hurry, something DePodesta would likely welcome if Colorado decides to deal him.
The 29-year-old turned in the best season of his major league career in 2026, hitting .260/.331/.417 with 15 home runs, 56 RBIs, and 111 hits in 120 games. His season ended in September because of an injury, but before that, he was one of the more reliable producers for manager Warren Schaeffer.
Miller named the Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves, and Boston Red Sox as possible fits for Castro. Each could make sense as a trade partner, though the Red Sox might prefer to go after a bigger name if they are looking to fill an infield spot.
However Colorado decides to approach the winter, the bigger picture remains the same. The Rockies lost 100 games, but there were encouraging signs from some of their young players, and the next step is figuring out which pieces help push the club toward 2027 and beyond.
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