Lopez, 29, has spent the past year bouncing around the league at a dizzying pace. After starting last offseason unsigned, he joined the Chicago Cubs in February, only to be released a month later. From there, he signed with the Los Angeles Angels, who designated him for assignment. He returned to the Cubs shortly afterward before being outrighted to Triple-A Iowa.
Eager for a fresh opportunity, he elected free agency again and caught on with the Arizona Diamondbacks, though that stint lasted only until July. Lopez then spent a brief period with the New York Yankees before once again being released. He eventually returned to the Cubs late in the season.
Despite the constant roster shuffling, Lopez has long held a reputation as a dependable defensive infielder. His glove has always been his calling card, even as his offense has struggled to keep pace. Last season, he appeared in just 18 major league games, posting a .220 OPS across limited at-bats. Still, his defensive versatility remains attractive to teams searching for depth. Over his seven-year big league career, Lopez has played second base, shortstop, third base, first base, and even left field, though most of his innings have come up the middle.
For the Rockies, a team in desperate need of production across the roster, Lopez represents a low-risk option who can bring experience and reliability to the bench. Colorado has struggled to find steady defensive contributors in recent seasons, and Lopez’s track record suggests he could help stabilize the infield if he earns a spot. His ability to play multiple positions at a high level gives him a real chance to break camp with the major league club.
The opportunity in Colorado may be one of the best Lopez has received in some time. The Rockies, coming off another difficult season, are in search of playable depth and improved defense everywhere on the roster. If Lopez can show enough at the plate during spring training—while continuing to provide the elite glove work he’s known for—he could carve out a meaningful role on a team that has little to lose by giving him a shot.
