While third-base star Nolan Arenado expressed his joy at being the newest member of the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday morning, the heads of his former team were questioned by the media at an hour-long press conference.
Rockies owner Dick Monfort and general manager Jeff Bridich were asked not only about their decision to switch Arenado to St. Louis and the team’s financial situation, but also about the direction of the franchise.
The press conference ended with Monfort being asked if he was considering firing Bridich.
“No, I didn’t think to fire Jeff,” he said. “I thought about saying goodbye.”
It was difficult to know whether he was kidding or not.
The following are some of the most striking lessons from the media session:
* They cited the negotiation as a financial decision, but also pointed out that Arenado wanted to leave Colorado and asked to be negotiated within nine months after signing an extension of the contract.
* Bridich took the blame for the franchise’s failure in the past two seasons, as well as for the disengagement with Arenado.
“If we want to pass the blame, you can blame me,” said Bridich.
* It is not yet clear whether the Rockies will be able to hold on to shortstop star Trevor Story, who is scheduled to become a free agent after the 2021 season.
* The Rockies do not see the team needing a complete disassembly, with Monfort saying he still sees talent at the club, and Bridich adding: “This is not a complete overhaul of the team. Rebuilding is not the case for our situation now. ”
* Monfort would have liked the Rockies to make an effort to re-hire DJ LeMahieu after the 2018 season, instead of seeing him sign with the New York Yankees.
“In retrospect, losing a DJ was a big deal. (…) We would like to be able to redo that, ”said Monfort.