BSN Exclusive: Rockies praise new clubhouse and McGregor Square

DENVER – Reinvesting over $300 million in players this offseason was only part of the master plan for Colorado Rockies owner/chairman and CEO Dick Monfort.

On Thursday, Monfort announced the name of the West Lot project, set to open January 1, 2021, would be named McGregor Square to honor Rockies’ late president, Keli S. McGregor, during the official naming ceremony.

“McGregor Square not only extends the legacy of Keli, our beloved friend and leader of the Rockies’ organization,” said Monfort. “It is also an ideal extension of Coors Field, providing an exciting place to congregate year-round, with something for everyone.”

The media day before the Rockies’ home opener also highlighted several improvements around the confines of 20th and Blake.

Surrounding the stadium are new LED field lights that generate less than 505,900 watts of electricity, a reduction of nearly 50% from the previous metal halide sports lighting luminaries.

In right-center field on the main concourse is an Arrow Electronics Interactive Area that features a new batting simulator and photo booth that are sure to be a hit with fans of all ages.

Upstairs in the Wells Fargo Club Level has seen a complete renovation featuring new carpeting, lighting, restrooms, a merchandise store behind home plate and a remodeled Boyer’s Coffee stand.

One of the most noticeable differences is in the basement where the player’s clubhouse got makeover like no other: new locker room, training room, workout facility, dining room and lounge, showers, and various offices for coaches and team personnel.

“I love it. This blows me away,” added Jon Gray, who’s been with the organization since 2013. “For being in the big leagues for a few years and seeing this? It’s like the next step. This is the top of the line. This is the best clubhouse in the major leagues.”

One of the more interesting additions to lockers is a fan that circulates air to help with the drying of jerseys for day games occuring after a night game, storage for oversized bat bags and room for up to 16 pairs of high top sneakers.

Not to be lost in the shuffle amidst the millions of dollars spent on the Coors Field improvements are even the new digs for the clubhouse manager Mike “Tiny” Pontarelli.

“Tiny has the coolest office,” exclaimed Ryan McMahon when discussing the fantastic facility upgrades that have now taken care of the man that takes care of him.