Rockies Confirm Warren Schaeffer as Full-Time Manager for 2026

UPDATE: The Colorado Rockies have just confirmed that Warren Schaeffer will continue as the team’s full-time manager for the 2026 season after a tumultuous year. This announcement comes after a dismal performance in which the Rockies recorded 119 losses, the most in the franchise’s history and the highest in the National League since the 1962 New York Mets.

Schaeffer, who was elevated from third-base coach to manager on May 11 following the firing of Bud Black and bench coach Mike Redmond, struggled to turn the team’s fortunes around, ending the season with a record of 43-119. The Rockies finished a staggering 50 games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West, highlighting a season filled with challenges and disappointments.

In a statement regarding Schaeffer’s appointment, new president of baseball operations Paul DePodesta expressed confidence in his leadership skills, stating, “We’re confident Warren is the right person to lead our club moving forward. He has established strong relationships with our players and embodies the energy and work ethic we want on and off the field.”

The Rockies’ pitching staff recorded a historic 6.65 ERA, the highest in Major League Baseball since the statistic became official in 1913. The team allowed 1,021 runs this season, the most since the 1996 Detroit Tigers gave up 1,103. The franchise’s run differential of -424 stands as the worst since 1900, surpassing the -349 of the 1932 Boston Red Sox.

Despite the team’s struggles, there were some bright spots, including a breakout season from All-Star catcher Hunter Goodman, who posted a batting average of .278 with 31 home runs and 91 RBIs. The Rockies also celebrated the talent of Ezequiel Tovar and Brenton Doyle, both of whom received Gold Glove honors in 2024.

Looking ahead, Schaeffer expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “My focus remains on continuing to build a strong, unified culture based on accountability, hard work, and trust.” He emphasized the importance of relationships with players and the need to create a team that fans can embrace and take pride in.

With the Rockies set to embark on a new chapter under Schaeffer’s leadership, fans are eager to see how the team will regroup and respond after a historically challenging season. The upcoming offseason will be crucial as the Rockies aim to rebuild and improve their standing in the league.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Rockies’ offseason moves and preparations for the 2026 season.