Despite another 100-plus-loss season, the Colorado Rockies may have an exciting future developing, and it is largely because of the rookies on the team. 

Colorado got quality contributions from many of its young players all season long. While some clearly still need time to develop, one who has proven himself early and emphatically is center fielder Cole Carrigg.

In saying that, what grade does Carrigg deserve for his rookie year?

Carrigg, 24, was the Rockies' 65th pick in the Competitive Balance Round B portion of the 2023 Major League Baseball Draft. 

On June 9, he made his MLB debut and took the field by storm. By season's end, Carrigg had appeared in 93 games and had taken 333 at-bats, in which he logged a .279 batting average, a .341 on-base percentage, a .477 slugging percentage and an .818 OPS with 12 home runs and 53 RBIs.

Carrigg took advantage of the hitting opportunities presented by the environment at Coors Field and the difficulty created by altitude for opposing pitchers. In 48 home games and 172 at-bats, Carrigg notched a .331 batting average, a .379 on-base percentage, a .552 slugging percentage and a .931 OPS. 

He also notched seven of his 12 home runs at Coors Field and 32 of his RBIs.

In away games, Carrigg experienced a rather precipitous drop-off in his hitting statistics. In 45 games and 161 at-bats on the road, Carrigg's batting average fell to .224, his on-base percentage dropped to .300, his slugging percentage fell to .398 and his OPS plummeted to .698. 

This is part of the reason why I cannot boost Carrigg's grade to an A. As his MLB career continues and he continues to garner experience, I believe that he will become a better hitter on the road, and Colorado will need him to be.

Additionally, as a defender, Carrigg was decent, but far from perfect. In center field, where he spent 83 of his games, Carrigg posted a .979 fielding percentage, and he had as many errors (5) as he did assists. 

In 240 total chances, he posted 230 putouts. Carrigg also spent time at shortstop (22 games) and two games in right field, where he demonstrated competence. 

Again, he will have to grow as a defender, and this also affects his current grade.

Overall, Carrigg put together a very nice year that culminated in being recognized as the National League Rookie of the Month in September. As long as he continues to work hard, he can become a major contributor to the success the Rockies are still working to find.