Bud Black, a veteran manager with nearly a decade of experience at the helm of the Colorado Rockies, will return for a ninth season, bringing stability and continuity to a team seeking resurgence. Following a challenging 2024 campaign, Black’s extended contract through 2025 provides a reassuring presence, allowing the Rockies to focus on rebuilding and contention.
However, changes are afoot within the coaching staff. The Rockies announced that bullpen coach Reid Cornelius and assistant hitting coach J.P. Pilittere will not return for the 2025 season, marking the first significant shake-up under Black’s renewed leadership.
The Colorado Rockies announced today that they have extended Manager Bud Black’s contract through the 2025 season. pic.twitter.com/KqsGVKfkqH
— Rockies Club Information (@RockiesClubInfo) October 8, 2024
Bud Black and Rockies Agree to One-Year Contract Extension
Black, 67, boasts an impressive managerial resume, highlighted by his tenure with the Colorado Rockies. With a franchise-record 537-657 mark over eight seasons, Black has cemented his status as the winningest manager in Rockies history. Under Black’s guidance, the Rockies achieved consecutive postseason berths in 2017 and 2018, a first in franchise history. This milestone underscores his ability to lead teams to success.
Black’s overall managerial record stands at 1,186-1,362, placing him 48th all-time in Major League Baseball history. Among active managers, he ranks fourth. His accolades include the 2010 National League Manager of the Year award, earned during his stint with the San Diego Padres.
Despite guiding the Rockies through consecutive postseason appearances in 2017-18, Black faced uncertainty about his future after the 2024 season. The team’s recent downturn, marked by two 100-loss campaigns and a six-year losing streak, raised questions about whether Black would remain at the helm.
Anything is Possible
However, Black wants to be part of a young, evolving roster, hoping to mirror the Kansas City Royals, who lost 106 games last year but made the postseason this fall.
“I think anything is possible,” Black said on the final day of the season. “I’m optimistic.”
Black sees potential in shortstop Ezequiel Tovar and center fielder Brenton Doyle, who have the makings of becoming All-Stars one day. He enjoyed the team’s defense and was encouraged by the performance of a rebuilt bullpen in the final weeks of the season.
Black joined the Rockies in November 2016, succeeding Walt Weiss, whose contract expired at the end of that season. With a wealth of experience as a player, coach, and manager, Black brought a strong pitching background to the organization. Black’s impact was swift and significant. In 2017-18, he oversaw the development of a formidable rotation featuring German Marquez, Kyle Freeland, and Antonio Senzatela.
Upon his arrival, Black inherited a talented roster, boasting infielders Nolan Arenado, Trevor Story, and DJ LeMahieu, alongside outfielders Charlie Blackmon and Carlos Gonzalez. Under his guidance, these players flourished, forming the nucleus of a competitive team.
Main Photo: © Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
