After a breakout season, CarGo is ready to make his mark in the majors
In most cases, the term “youth movement” is a sign that a team has fallen from its peak and is ready to rebuild. Not so for the Colorado Rockies. The outfield has gotten even younger with Dexter Fowler looking to patrol centerfield, and breakout sensation Carlos Gonzalez penciled in as the probable starting left fielder.
Not that long ago, Gonzales was that guy – you know, the prospect with all the promise that got moved in a blockbuster deal. Guys like this skid into the minors ever year, never to be heard from again. But for CarGo, it’s been a ride to the top. The new #5 has arrived in LoDo, and he’s making waves across the majors as a potential emerging superstar.
Last season was a slow starter for Carlos… call it a time of adjustment, or perhaps just normal ups and downs for a young player in the bigs. But as the season progressed, it became clear that the loss of Matt Holliday was not going to be the long term sting that it at first appeared. Huston Street was doing his job, and Carlos – the unknown factor of the trade – began to come on strong. His season culminated in a strong NLDS performance – 10 for 17 with 5 runs. Though the Rockies lost the series, Gonzalez made his statement. He’s the big reason that even the likes of Peter Gammons (ESPN) are taking notice of the Rockies this spring.
Just like anyone else, CarGo is not immune to slumps, so a high-powered year isn’t a guarantee… but don’t be surprised to see Carlos Gonzalez leading a crew of Rockies into the All-Star game in Anaheim this summer, and if some other players play up to potential and some stars align, he’ll be leading the entire crew of Rockies into another rendition of Rocktober baseball.
