Blackmon 'perplexed' by Rockies' decision to sign another outfielder
When the Colorado Rockies announced that they had signed Gerardo Parra to join an outfield that already had three solid starting outfielders in place, fans weren't the only ones scratching their heads.
One of the Rockies' starting outfielders himself was caught off guard when he learned of the news.
"I was a little perplexed at first," center fielder Charlie Blackmon said of Colorado signing Parra, per the Denver Post. "I didn't see it coming. I didn't know that was in play."
Parra is capable of playing all three outfield positions, but has predominantly played the corner outfield positions during his seven-year MLB career.
Although Blackmon was taken aback by the front office's decision to sign another outfielder despite ample options already on the roster, he believes Parra can make the team better.
"After looking at it, he's a great player," Blackmon said. "He has one of the best arms in the league. He can only make us better. … We'll find a way to make it work."
With the addition of Parra, the Rockies now have four outfielders who are capable of starting, all of whom are left-handed batters.
Since the acquisition was made, speculation has risen that Colorado might soon trade one of their outfielders in order to acquire starting pitching, as the team is in desperate need of serviceable starters after finishing last in MLB in ERA and WHIP last season.
