As Charlie Blackmon bid farewell to baseball, Antonio Senzatela stepped into the spotlight as the Colorado Rockies' longest-tenured player. Joining the organization back in July 2011 and making his MLB debut in 2017, Senzatela has become a familiar face in Denver.
The right-hander inked a five-year, $50.5 million contract following the 2021 season. That year, he recorded a 4-10 record with a 4.42 ERA, along with 105 strikeouts and 32 walks over 156.2 innings.
Known for his ability to induce ground balls, Senzatela has struggled with missing bats. However, his 1.84 BB/9 in 2021 was the second-best single-season mark in Rockies history.
One of the standout aspects of that season was his performance at Coors Field, where he defied the odds with a 3.97 ERA and allowed just five home runs. Additionally, he achieved nine consecutive quality starts, the second-longest streak in franchise history.
Injuries have been a constant battle for Senzatela, with the most severe being an ACL tear in 2022 while covering first base against the Cardinals. His challenges continued with a right elbow strain in May 2023, leading to Tommy John surgery after a UCL tear.
The road back has been tough. In 2024, he managed three starts, ending with an 0-1 record and a 6.57 ERA over 12.1 innings.
The 2025 season mirrored these struggles, as he posted a 4-15 record with a 6.65 ERA across 130 innings, striking out 73 and walking 47. However, a move to the bullpen in late August sparked improvement, with a 2.86 ERA over seven relief appearances.
Notably, his velocity spiked, hitting 97-100 mph in September.
The bullpen might just be where Senzatela finds his groove, potentially thriving as a long reliever.
Looking ahead, Senzatela is set to start against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the Cactus League opener. He'll then join teammate Ezequiel Tovar on Team Venezuela for the World Baseball Classic beginning March 5.
While starting may not be his optimal role, credit is due to the Rockies for giving their longest-tenured player a chance at redemption.