It’s been a busy spring training for Colorado Rockies infielder Ryan Ritter, who made his MLB debut in 2025.
In addition to playing second, third, and short, he’s also spend some time in the outfield. But, as he told Purple Row, he’s ready for the challenge.
Lessons learned in 2025
While there were any number of lessons to be learned in the Rockies historically bad 2025, for Ritter, it was about learning to pace himself.
“It’s a long, very long season,” Ritter said, “so just making sure that I’m really taking care of my my sleep, my meals right after the game and just staying strong all year.”
Although he, like many MLB players, found himself losing too much weight during a grueling season, Ritter is on track to do better in 2026.
“I just know that this year, that’s not gonna happen.”
In addition to spending the offseason in the weight room, Ritter also began working on setting a sustainable routine — even if it’s a little dull.
“This year, I have a good routine,” he said. “I make sure I do the boring things every day, just keeping it simple.”
Coaching and spring training changes
So far, Ritter likes the changes put in place by the Rockies front office.
“It’s been great,” he said, pointing to all the new coaches and players. “We’ve been all getting along really well here, and it’s been very competitive, but it’s how you want it.”
For Ritter, he appreciates the “small things” happening in camp.
“I want to learn and improve on every part of my game. So I definitely like hearing from them more often this year.”
Exploring the outfield grass
Ritter has spent most of his MLB career playing the infield. But with the Rockies emphasis on versatility, they’ve given Ritter a shot at showing what he can do in the outfield.
But Warren Schaeffer and his staff didn’t give him much notice.
“The day I found I was playing left field, it was like, ‘Hey, you play left before?’ I said, ‘No.’” And then bench coach Jeff Pickler told Ritter it was his time. Ritter took a few outfield reps, and the rest is history.
“I’ve just been making it part of my game.”
The coaching staff has helped with the transition and he become a more diverse utility player.
“The coaches get me prepared from pregame work, and I just use my athletic ability to make it work,” Ritter said.
Clearly, the Rockies are seeing what Ritter can do.
“I don’t think I’ve played a game this year where it’s been back-to-back the same position,” Ritter said. “So they’re definitely putting me in positions to play all these different positions, and it’s been great.”
He added, “I’m getting more comfortable.”
Still, when asked his favorite position, Ritter had a quick answer: “I played infield my whole life, so I’m a shortstop at heart.”
At this point, it seems likely Ritter will break camp with the Rockies given his flexibility. For a player in only his second MLB season, it’s a positive sign.
To Read (Rockpiles)
To Read (State of the Position)
Full Stream
To Read (Other)
Weekend Discussion Topics
Who will be the fifth starter? Who will be the backup catcher? Who will be the starting first basemen? Who will make the bullpen? Let us know in the comments!
Please keep in mind our Purple Row Community Guidelines when you’re commenting. Thanks!
Read the full article here
