Rockies make Opening Day decision on former Yankees prospect blocked by Ben Rice

With Ben Rice positioned to be the everyday first baseman for the New York Yankees, there was no path to playing time for one of the AL East club's top prospects. 

That led to an offseason trade between the Yankees and Colorado Rockies. Right-hander Angel Chivilli was sent to the Bronx, and T.J. Rumfield, a first baseman with pop, was sent to Colorado. 

At the time of the trade, Rumfield was ranked as New York's No. 22 prospect on MLB Pipeline. According to Thomas Harding of MLB.com, the 25-year-old was recently informed that he's made the Rockies' Opening Day roster. 

In 58 trips to the plate in spring training, Rumfield hit .280/.362/.520 with four home runs, 12 RBIs, and a .882 OPS. He drew five walks and struck out just once. 

Rumfield to make MLB debut 

Despite the losing season that's in the cards for the Rockies, Rumfield is in a better situation for his playing career in Colorado. 

He posted an .825 OPS with 16 homers in 138 games at Triple-A with the Yankees in 2025 and could receive his first taste of Major League action when the Rockies visit the Miami Marlins in their opening series. 

Veteran Kyle Freeland was appointed the Opening Day starter by manager Warren Schaeffer. 

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