BSN Exclusive: Alonso discusses his new role; Rockies make transactions

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of Tuesday night’s game against the Nationals, the Rockies made a few transactions, including one that welcomes a new face to the big league roster.

Colorado announced the selection of first baseman Yonder Alonso from Triple-A Albuquerque. Signed as a Minor League free agent on July 10 by the Rockies after his release from the Chicago White Sox on July 3, Alonso appeared in nine games with the Isotopes, making an immediate impact in the process. The 32-year-old batted .419 (13-for-31) with three doubles, one triple, two home runs, 12 RBI, five walks and six strikeouts.

In a corresponding move, the Rockies have designated for assignment right-handed pitcher Seunghwan Oh and optioned right-hander Yency Almonte to Triple-A. It was first announced on July 16 that the 37-year-old Oh was set to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery on his elbow to remove loose particles.

The right-handed relief pitcher was critical to Colorado’s bullpen last year thanks to a trade at the deadline that brought him over from Toronto. His $2.5MM option was an easy decision this offseason after putting up a 2.53 ERA over 21.1 inning with the Rockies during the final two months of 2018. In 2019, he threw only 18.1 innings to the tune of a 9.33 ERA.

As for Alonso, it’s a reunion with manager Bud Black who worked with the slugger at the start of his career in San Diego from 2012-15. The Cuban-born infielder experienced his greatest success in 2017 with Oakland, when he was selected as an All-Star for the first time. In 2018, he had similar success, increasing his RBI total and reducing his strikeout percentage with Cleveland.

Signed to play designated hitter this season with the White Sox, Alonso struggled in his new role, batting just .178 while generating -1.1 wins above replacement. “It was a learning curve for me even even though I’ve been around,” Alonso admitted. “Just being in a different role, being a DH guy, was a little different for me. Being able to play every day for almost ten years now, having to DH was a little different for me. I learned and I felt like it was a good experience.  I’m ready for my next chapter.”

After his release from the South Siders on July 3, his mindset focused on the positive. “I was excited for the opportunity. I wanted to get here as quick as possible, just to help the team and contribute as much as I can,” Alonso shared.

The experience in Albuquerque was beneficial for all parties. Of his newfound shot in the big leagues, Alonso said, “There’s no greater feeling than to feel mentally and physically that you feel ok to do what you can do on a normal day. Being able to do those things in Triple-A, having success, I knew I could still do it and continue to prove people wrong and help guys win more ball games.”

As for any questions about being a mature player with his best days behind him, Alonso knows there’s a lot more in the tank. “Oh yeah! I’m young. I’m a young 32-year-old. There’s definitely a lot left in the tank. I’m ready to go,” he retorted.