Colorado Rockies Narrow Down GM Search: Amiel Sawdaye and Matt Forman as Finalists

The Colorado Rockies are in the process of selecting a new head of baseball operations following a disappointing 2023 season that culminated in a 119-loss record. The team has identified Arizona Diamondbacks’ Amiel Sawdaye and Cleveland Guardians’ Matt Forman as the leading candidates for the position. This search comes after the departure of longtime general manager Bill Schmidt and assistant GM Zack Rosenthal earlier this month.

Sports IllustratedRockies GM search: Colorado eyes D-backs' Amiel Sawdaye

The Rockies have publicly committed to hiring an external candidate for their front office, a departure from their traditionally insular approach. The search is being led by executive vice president Walker Monfort, son of team owner Dick Monfort. The Rockies aim to finalize their decision by the end of October, ideally before the GM meetings scheduled for early November.

Denver Post

The new general manager will face immediate challenges, including the need to hire a new manager, as the Rockies are one of six teams currently without one. The team's recent performance has raised concerns about its competitiveness, with three consecutive seasons of over 100 losses. The new hire will be tasked with reshaping the franchise's future and addressing the unique challenges of operating in a high-altitude environment.

There is skepticism regarding the Rockies' decision to hire from outside the organization, given the historical difficulties the team has faced. Critics argue that the franchise has not adequately addressed its long-standing issues and that a fresh perspective is necessary to break the cycle of poor performance. Some believe that the Rockies' management must be willing to embrace innovative strategies to become competitive in the league.

Denver Post

The Rockies are expected to conduct further interviews with Sawdaye and Forman in the coming days, with a decision anticipated by the end of October. The new hire will play a crucial role in the team's direction as they prepare for the upcoming offseason and the challenges of free agency.

• “The Rockies are trying to reshape their future following three consecutive 100-loss seasons, culminating in a 119-loss campaign this past season.” — Source

• “Certainly, Sawdaye is quite familiar with the Rockies, with Arizona occupying the same NL West division.” — Source

Sports Illustrated

• “The Rockies have not confirmed Sawdaye and Forman as finalists, and it’s not clear if they are the only two remaining candidates.” — Source

• “The notoriously insular Rockies publicly committed to hiring someone externally this time around.” — Source