In a decisive move signaling a shift in direction, the Colorado Rockies have relieved manager Bud Black of his duties following a dismal 7–33 start to the 2025 MLB season. The decision comes on the heels of a 9–3 victory over the San Diego Padres, which ended an eight-game losing streak but was insufficient to salvage Black's tenure.

The Rockies' performance this season has been marked by inconsistency and underachievement, culminating in a franchise-worst 21–0 loss to the Padres the previous day.

Black, who became the Rockies' all-time winningest manager in 2024, managed the team for nine seasons, compiling a 544–690 record. Under his leadership, the Rockies reached the playoffs in 2017 and 2018 but have since struggled to maintain competitiveness. The team's ongoing challenges, including back-to-back 100-loss seasons in 2023 and 2024, prompted the front office to seek a change.

A New Dawn

In the wake of Black's dismissal, third-base coach Warren Schaeffer has been appointed interim manager for the remainder of the season. Clint Hurdle, a former Rockies manager and the franchise's all-time winningest skipper, will serve as the interim bench coach. General Manager Bill Schmidt expressed confidence in Schaeffer's ability to connect with players and improve team performance, emphasizing the need for a fresh approach to reverse the team's fortunes.

As the Rockies embark on this new chapter, the focus will be on rebuilding the team's culture and performance. The remainder of the 2025 season presents an opportunity for Schaeffer and the coaching staff to assess the roster and implement strategies aimed at long-term success. The Rockies' ownership and management are committed to making the necessary changes to restore the team to competitiveness in the National League West.

Schaeffer, previously the team’s third base coach and a respected figure in the Rockies’ player development system, steps into one of the most challenging managerial roles in baseball. But does he have the tools – and time – to make an impact?

Schaeffer Stepping Up

Schaeffer’s most immediate opportunity lies in player development and clubhouse culture. A former minor league manager within the Rockies’ system, he has strong relationships with many of the team’s younger players, including top prospects like Adael Amador and Yanquiel Fernandez. Giving these prospects meaningful playing time could inject life into a stagnant roster.

Schaeffer’s background managing in the minors gives him insight into the Rockies’ farm system. These changes wouldn’t solve every issue overnight, but they would signal a bold shift toward player growth, accountability, and future competitiveness. One should expect that he will instill more aggressive baserunning and better situational awareness, turning the Rockies into a more dynamic, high-effort team.

Additionally, Schaeffer is expected to emphasize fundamentals, baserunning, and defensive improvement – areas where the Rockies have consistently struggled. With Clint Hurdle stepping in as interim bench coach, Schaeffer will also have a seasoned voice beside him to help stabilize the team’s leadership.

If the Rockies are to salvage anything from 2025, it won’t be about a playoff push – it will be about setting the tone for 2026 and beyond. Schaeffer’s success will hinge not just on wins, but on whether he can inspire effort, reestablish development priorities, and restore a sense of direction to a franchise adrift.

The challenge is steep – but for Schaeffer, it’s also the opportunity of a lifetime that he should not pass up with Black now moving on from the team.