For Colorado Rockies prospect Ryan McMahon, playing time in the big leagues has been sparingly left on his dish like leftovers. A nibble here. A nibble there.
But for 2018, McMahon could see his time on the diamond supersize.
Much like what happened with Trevor Story in 2016, McMahon has the potential to feast on opposing pitchers if given the opportunity. He hit an impressive .374 at Triple-A Albuquerque in 70 games last season, with 39 extra-base hits and 56 RBI. A start hot this spring and McMahon could find himself at the main table come Opening Day.
In an interview with Sean Walsh on Mile High Sports AM 1340 | FM 104.7, McMahon acknowledged just how special it is to play in the big leagues.
“It’s completely different,” McMahon says about the difference between the majors and the minors. “Being up in ‘The Show,’ it’s your dream come true. I mean, you go from the minors where the travel is terrible to first-class seats for everybody on the team plane. It’s just awesome. It’s what you work for your whole life. It’s really a treat.”
The Rockies have played McMahon and multiple infield positions throughout his minor-lague career, something the 23-year-old says he’s enjoyed so far. With a possible opening at first base, McMahon has a chance to vie for a spot on the big-league club for 2018.
When asked if he sees an opportunity for himself this year like Story had in 2016, the very humble McMahon wouldn’t come out and say that he envisions a spot on the Rockies roster for himself quite yet.
“You know, I’m confident in my abilities but at the end of the day that’s not my decision to make,” McMahon said. “[General manger] Jeff Bridich and [Rockies manager] Bud Black are going to do whatever’s best for the team. I’ve got an opportunity to go into Spring Training, play my hardest and try and earn a spot with the big club, but at the end of the day it’s not my decision.”
The Rockies and McMahon are now less than a month away from the start of that decision being made. McMahon and his Rockies teammates are currently on the annual “Rockies Caravan,” and after that it’s a short break before pitchers and catchers report in mid-February. Spring Training officially begins Feb. 19 for most clubs. The Rockies and Diamondbacks open Cactus League play on Feb. 23.
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