As the New York Yankees gear up to face the Colorado Rockies in a three-game series beginning Friday, there are several key factors to keep an eye on amid the Rockies’ struggle this season.
The Rockies have had a historically poor start to the 2025 season, sitting at 8-42 and on track for a potential record low of just 25 wins. This offers the Yankees an opportunity to continue their winning momentum, although they may face initial challenges as they transition from their early Thursday game to the altitude of Colorado. With Clarke Schmidt starting in the opening game, who has struggled as of late, fans should be prepared for a potentially rocky start for the Yankees.
One standout player to watch is Will Warren, who has emerged as a surprising force for the Yankees. After a slow beginning, Warren has shown dominance over his last three outings, allowing only three runs and striking out 26 batters in 18 innings. His performance will be crucial in the series finale on Sunday, particularly as he looks to further solidify his position within the starting rotation.
Another critical player is Max Fried, who has stepped up in the absence of ace Gerrit Cole, who is recovering from season-ending elbow surgery. Fried boasts an impressive 6-0 record, with a 1.29 ERA. However, he faces the difficulty of pitching in Coors Field, which could pose challenges despite his previous success in the stadium.
On the offensive front, Cody Bellinger has been a key contributor for the Yankees, recently ending a 15-game hitting streak that significantly boosted his batting average and on-base percentage. Bellinger’s previous experience playing in Coors Field from his time with the Dodgers could serve him well as he seeks to maintain his form.
The youth of the Yankees roster, including Jasson Dominguez, Jorbit Vivas, and Oswald Peraza, has also been a bright spot as they have stepped up during injuries to other players. Their continued development this weekend will be vital for the team’s future.
Predictions for the series suggest that Cody Bellinger will be a standout performer, while Max Fried is likely to deliver a strong start. Rockies catcher Hunter Goodman could present challenges for the Yankees, boasting a solid batting line-up that includes seven home runs and 31 RBIs so far this season.
As the Yankees face a struggling Rockies team, this series presents a chance to build confidence and create positive momentum moving forward in the season. The mix of experienced players and youthful talent indicates that the Yankees could find their rhythm while also giving their younger members crucial playing time.