The Colorado Rockies have made a significant move by calling up 24-year-old Ryan Ritter, the team’s highly anticipated prospect, for his MLB debut against the New York Mets at Coors Field. Ritter has been performing exceptionally well at Triple-A with the Albuquerque Isotopes, earning the title of Pacific Coast League Player of the Month for May after an impressive .381 batting average along with 12 home runs and 31 RBIs.
To make room for Ritter, the Rockies have placed Gold Glove shortstop Ezequiel Tovar on the 10-day injured list with a left oblique strain, marking Tovar’s second time on the IL this season. Manager Warren Schaeffer has indicated that there is no set timeline for Tovar’s return.
Ritter is excited for his debut, with at least 20 family members, including his siblings, in attendance. Reflecting on his journey, Ritter shared the surprise he felt when he learned he was being called up. “I won’t change anything; I’ll focus on playing the way I have been,” he stated, emphasizing the routine and mindset that have contributed to his success.
After being drafted in the fourth round out of the University of Kentucky in 2022, Ritter leads the PCL this season with a .635 slugging percentage and an impressive 1.049 OPS. Over his minor-league career, he boasts a cumulative batting line of .284/.386/.510, along with a remarkable tally of 48 home runs and 166 RBIs across four seasons. Ritter will wear number 8 in the major leagues, while Orlando Arcia will change his number from 8 to 11.
Manager Schaeffer praised Ritter’s attributes, highlighting his ability to hit line drives, compete fiercely at the plate, and play multiple infield positions with solid defensive skills. He also mentioned Ritter’s above-average speed, indicating potential for base-stealing.
In addition to Ritter’s call-up, the Rockies have released veteran catcher Jacob Stallings due to struggles this season, batting just .143. They have recalled rookie Braxton Fulford, in hopes of injecting youth into the roster. Fulford previously had a brief stint with the team earlier this season, where he hit one home run in eight at-bats.
The Rockies are also welcoming back right-hander Zach Agnos from bereavement leave, who has been a valuable asset to the bullpen with a strong 1.50 ERA in 16 appearances.
Overall, the Rockies are infusing new talent into their roster, which could enhance their performance as they navigate a competitive season ahead. Ritter’s debut brings a sense of hope and excitement for fans and signifies the Rockies’ commitment to developing young players who can help reshape the team’s future.