The Colorado Rockies have reportedly discussed the idea of signing free agent Daniel Murphy this offseason as an option to play first base in 2016. Murphy has been extended a qualifying offer from the Mets and he is not expected to return and the Rockies declined the option on Justin Morneau, meaning 1B is open for next season.
Murphy is hitting the free agent market after having a strong postseason and most in the media predict that the Mets will not bring him back. According to Ken Rosenthal at Fox Sports, the Rockies have "discussed internally" signing Murphy and using him to play first base. Murphy played second base primarily for the Mets and he has some experience at the first base position, playing nearly 200 games there in his career.
Murphy is considered a below average fielder at second base and that reared its ugly head in the World Series and now the Rockies could consider signing Murphy to play another position. The Rockies declined the $9 million mutual option on Justin Morneau and that would open up first base. Murphy will be 31 next season and he has been a competent hitter in his career, putting up a .288 batting average. Murphy had a career high 14 home runs this season and hit .281 and he was hot in the playoffs, hitting a home run in six straight games for the Mets.
Morneau was solid for the Rockies when healthy, but he only was able to play in 49 games while dealing with concussion issues. Morneau hit 310/.363/.458 and had three home runs and 15 RBI for the team. The Rockies would have to give up a draft pick to the Mets if they sign Murphy since he was given the qualifying offer. The Rockies top pick is protected, so the team would have to give up their Comp Round A pick if they sign Murphy, according to Fox Sports.
Murphy is going to get some attention on the market after the way he played in the postseason and teams like the Yankees, Angels, Rockies and Dodgers could be potential landing spots. According to MLBTradeRumors.com, Murphy is likely going to make between $50-60 million on his next contract.
