Rockies Explore Developing Jimmy Herget as a Starter to Boost Rotation Strength

Rockies Mull Starting Rotation Spot for Reliever Jimmy Herget

The Colorado Rockies are at a pivotal point with right-handed pitcher Jimmy Herget. His impressive performances out of the bullpen have sparked internal discussions about possibly transitioning him into a starting role – a move that could substantially impact the team’s pitching depth and overall competitiveness.

Evaluating Herget’s Potential

Herget hasn’t just been a serviceable reliever; he’s consistently gotten outs and demonstrated an ability to effectively manage games. This success has led the Rockies to seriously evaluate whether those skills translate to a starting pitcher’s workload. The team believes that with longer innings to work, Herget could truly flourish.

The Rockies’ current rotation has faced challenges, creating an opening to explore all available options. Utilizing Herget’s untapped potential as a starter isn’t just about filling a spot; it’s about bolstering the entire pitching staff.

Key Performance Indicators

Herget’s statistics are encouraging. A solid strikeout rate combined with his ability to limit hard contact suggests he possesses the foundational skills needed to succeed as a starter. However, the Rockies are carefully considering how his current skillset will adapt to the demands of a starting role – specifically, managing pitch counts and navigating lineups multiple times through a game.

Strategic Considerations & Team Impact

This decision extends beyond Herget’s individual capabilities. It’s a strategic move with implications for the Rockies’ long-term plans. The team is actively seeking ways to improve its position in a competitive league,and a successful transition for Herget could provide a notable boost. The organization is weighing the potential benefits against the risks of altering Herget’s established role in a bullpen that already has its own vulnerabilities.

Looking Ahead: Implications for the Rockies’ Future

The coming weeks will be crucial as the Rockies assess how best to utilize Herget’s talents. This decision could reshape the pitching staff and potentially alter the trajectory of the team’s season. If Herget successfully transitions to a starting role, it could signal a new chapter for both the player and the franchise, with aspirations for greater success in Major League Baseball.

Disclaimer: This article provides facts regarding potential team strategies and player evaluations. Baseball decisions are complex and subject to change. This is not financial or betting advice. Any actions taken based on this information are at the reader’s own risk.For professional financial or legal advice, please consult with a qualified expert.

What are the primary challenges the Rockies face with their current starting pitching rotation?

Assessing the Current Rockies Rotation

The Colorado Rockies’ starting pitching has faced consistent challenges throughout the 2025 season. While young arms have shown flashes of potential, a lack of consistent, reliable starters has hampered the team’s ability to compete. currently, the rotation consists of[InsertCurrentRockiesRotationHere-[InsertCurrentRockiesRotationHere-research needed for accurate data], and the team’s ERA ranks among the league’s worst. This has prompted the front office to explore unconventional solutions,including a closer look at right-handed reliever jimmy Herget.

Herget’s Profile: Beyond a Late-inning Specialist

Jimmy Herget, primarily utilized as a high-leverage reliever, has consistently demonstrated impressive control and a knack for inducing weak contact.His recent scoreless appearance against the Yankees on May 26th, 2025 (MLB.com) highlights his ability to perform under pressure. However, his underlying metrics suggest potential for more than just short bursts.

Pitch Mix: Herget features a fastball,slider,and changeup. Scouts believe the changeup, in particular, could be a valuable asset in a starting role, providing a different look to opposing hitters.

Control & Command: A career walk rate below the league average indicates Herget possesses the command necessary to navigate deeper into games.

Durability: While traditionally a reliever, Herget has maintained good health, a crucial factor when considering a transition to starting.

Why Consider Herget as a Starter?

The Rockies’ decision to evaluate Herget as a starter isn’t a random one. Several factors contribute to this strategic shift:

1. Need for Rotation Depth: Injuries and underperformance have consistently plagued the Rockies’ starting pitching. Herget provides an internal option to address this ongoing issue.
2. Leveraging His Strengths: His ability to limit hard contact and generate ground balls could translate well to a starting role, potentially leading to more efficient innings.
3. Cost-Effectiveness: Developing a current player is frequently enough more financially viable than acquiring a starter via trade or free agency.
4. Potential for a Unique approach: Herget’s reliever background might allow him to attack hitters more aggressively early in counts, disrupting their timing.

The Transition Process: What to Expect

Converting a reliever to a starter is rarely seamless. The Rockies will likely implement a gradual build-up plan for Herget, focusing on:

Increased Pitch Count: Gradually increasing his pitch count during bullpen sessions and simulated games.

Longer Between-Starts Recovery: Adjusting his training regimen to accommodate the demands of starting, including a focus on recovery and injury prevention.

Refining Secondary Pitches: Working with pitching coaches to refine his changeup and slider, making them more effective against major league hitters over multiple innings.

Developing a Routine: Establishing a consistent pre-game and in-game routine to optimize performance and maintain focus.

Potential Challenges and Mitigation Strategies

The Rockies are aware of the hurdles involved in this transition. Some potential challenges include:

Maintaining Velocity: Starting pitchers typically experience a slight dip in velocity as they work deeper into games. The Rockies will need to monitor Herget’s velocity and adjust his pitch mix accordingly.

Endurance: Building the stamina to consistently pitch six or more innings will be a meaningful challenge.

Adjusting Mentality: Shifting from a high-intensity, short-burst mentality to a more measured, strategic approach.

To mitigate these challenges, the Rockies will likely:

Utilize Data Analytics: Closely monitor Herget’s performance metrics, including velocity, pitch movement, and fatigue levels.

Provide Ongoing Support: Offer consistent communication and support from pitching coaches and trainers.

Be Patient: Recognize that the transition will take time and allow Herget to adjust at his own pace.

Case Study: Prosperous Reliever-to-Starter conversions

While not always successful, several pitchers have successfully transitioned from relief roles to become effective starters.

Ross Stripling: A prime example of a reliever who successfully transitioned to a starting role,demonstrating the potential for late-career reinvention.

Chris Martin: While his transition was shorter-lived, Martin’s attempt highlights the challenges and rewards of such a move.

These examples demonstrate that with the right approach and player buy-in, a reliever-to-starter conversion can be a viable strategy.

Impact on the Rockies’ Future

Successfully developing Jimmy Herget as a starter could have a significant impact on the Rockies’ future. It would:

Strengthen the Rotation: Provide a much-needed boost to the team’s starting pitching depth.

Create Flexibility: Offer the Rockies more flexibility in managing their pitching staff.

Develop Internal Talent: Demonstrate the association’s commitment to developing players from within.

* Potential Trade Value: If Herget thrives as a starter, he could become a valuable trade asset down the line.