From Light Shows to Alcatraz Island and all the quirks in between - The Best of DNVR Rockies in 2022

With one foot into the new year as the final one steps away from 2022, there’s one last chance to reflect on the highlights from the previous season, especially those memorable moments that didn’t pertain to wins and losses.

We strive to share the view from the inside of the beloved teams from our region at DNVR. We also aim to tell compelling stories that dive into the world of being a big leaguer and their impassioned love for the game.

It is with great pride that we proudly present the best articles from DNVR Rockies this past year that illuminated something much closer than a 10,000 foot view of the Colorado Rockies.

Passion & The Game

C.J. Cron and Randal Grichuk enjoy 2013 Arkansas Travelers reunion in Washington, D.C.

Rockies’ catching defined by physical and mental toughness of Díaz

Freddie Freeman’s exchange with José Iglesias is an Opening Day moment he’ll “never forget”

Links and heartstrings between Joe, San Diego and Tony Gwynn are permanent

José Iglesias finds comfort thousands of miles away from home

In just the first game of the 2022 season, we learned a lot about José Iglesias on what appeared to be a regular base hit. Profiles on Connor Joe and Elias Díaz, not to mention a reunion nearly a decade in the making for C.J. Cron and Randal Grichuk, expanded the understanding of and appreciation for these denizens of Denver.

The Players

A Decade of Dependability: Charlie Blackmon enters rarified air in 12th season with Rockies

Kyle Freeland joins Team USA for the 2023 World Baseball Classic

Chuck Nazty is now ready for his 13th season in purple while Kyle Freeland is set to wear the red, white and blue for the first time in the long-awaited return of the World Baseball Classic.

The Franchise

Expansion Draft celebrates 30th anniversary as Freddie Benavides recalls Rockies origins

The morning every Colorado Rockies fan was smiling

Spring Training Notebook: Helton discusses his return and favorite Rockies’ moments

How the Rockies saved their bullpen, acquired an NL Manager of the Year and started Moneyball

Banter From The Bench: Vinny Castilla shares details on setting franchise records for the Colorado Rockies

Doesn’t it feel like just a few years ago that we were preparing for the start of Major League Baseball in Denver? It’s now 30 years later and there’s still a lot to commemorate, remember and explore about the history of the Rockies.

Off The Field

Kyle Freeland is hopeful for the return of the Stanley Cup: “Avs in 6”

Banter From The Bench: Ty Blach and the Prisoners of Alcatraz

Between a contract extension in April and his childhood team winning the Stanley Cup two months later, Freeland and fellow Coloradan Ty Blach had a great few months in the Centennial State.

Giving Back

Big lights, big inning, big donations: Rockies’ closer Daniel Bard puts on a show

Chatfield HS graduates provide relief in NL West bullpens and for firefighters across Colorado

Coloradans Tyler and Taylor Rogers, in addition to Daniel Bard, understand their place as role models and the opportunities that come with such a position. Hearing their stories first-hand really emphasized their passion to give back to their community.

The Quirks

Rockies unite with unique footwear thanks to memorable performance

Laughter Can Be The Best Medicine for the Colorado Rockies: The Sneaky Humor of Kris Bryant

From Little League World Series to Major League Baseball, Randal Grichuk has stories to tell

Rockies’ Stephenson and Gilbreath recount their unique COVID road trip

In between the more serious stories of triumph and perseverance, there are tales of Crocs, 13-hour road trips, and improbable journeys from Williamsport, PA to the big leagues.