DENVER -- Matt Holliday remains one of the most accomplished players in Rockies history. He made three all-star teams and scored the franchise's most memorable run in the 2007 play-in game against the San Diego Padres.
What if he returned to embellish his legacy? Holliday became a free agent this week, and he told Denver7 Friday he would listen to the Rockies, a team he sees on the cusp of winning.
"I don't have any idea of what my market will be but if they were competitive with their offer I'd definitely consider it," Holliday said.
Holliday made his big league debut with the Rockies on April 16, 2004, promoted after a breakthrough spring training following an injury to Larry Walker. He never stopped hitting. A ridiculously fit 6-foot-4, 240 pounds, Holliday helped the Rockies reach the playoffs in 2007, finishing second in National League MVP voting to Philadelphia's Jimmy Rollins. The Rockies won 21 of 22 games before the Red Sox swept them in the World Series.
The old regime was unable to secure Holliday to a below-market long-term extension. Former general manager Dan O'Dowd traded Holliday to Oakland in his best deal, landing outfielder Carlos Gonzalez, closer Huston Street, and pitcher Greg Smith. In five seasons with Colorado, Holliday hit .319 with a .386 on-base percentage, 128 home runs, and 483 RBIs. The former Oklahoma high school star who was once considered one of the top prep quarterback prospects was shipped from Oakland to St. Louis in 2008.
Holliday became a fan favorite with the Cardinals. He made four all-star teams, received MVP votes in four seasons and won a World Series ring in 2011. At 36, Holliday transitioned from the outfield to first base last season, batting .246 with 20 home runs and 41 extra-base hits in 110 games.
Holliday said he can play outfield or first base. He has faced new Rockies manager Bud Black for years and has long respected him. First base would make the most sense for Colorado, providing right-handed power, while shifting Gerardo Parra into a reserve outfield role. Other teams expected to have interest include the Boston Red Sox.
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Want Broncos news? Denver7 Broncos insider Troy E. Renck is your source. He talks to the players, covers the games and reports scoops on Denver7 and the Denver7 app. He is a CU grad who has covered pro sports in Colorado since 1996, including 14 years at The Denver Post. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter and TheDenverChannel.com’s Broncos page. Troy welcomes most of your emails at Troy.Renck@kmgh.com.
