Rockies' Freeman embraces utility role in Spring Training debut

Versatile player Tyler Freeman had an RBI double in his first at-bat as he prepares for a multi-position role this season.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rockies utility player Tyler Freeman made his Spring Training debut on Thursday, driving an RBI double in his first at-bat against the Brewers. Freeman, who joined the Rockies last year in a trade with the Guardians, is embracing a versatile role and is expected to see time in the outfield and infield this season. The Rockies have also added other multi-position players like Willi Castro and Edouard Julien to their roster this offseason.

Why it matters

Freeman's ability to play multiple positions will be valuable for the Rockies as they look to build a more balanced and flexible roster. His debut performance shows he is healthy and ready to contribute after dealing with a back injury in the offseason.

The details

Freeman underwent an anti-inflammatory injection during the offseason for a low back strain, but showed no issues in his first game action on Thursday. He played right field, his primary position last season, and drove a double to right field in his first at-bat. Freeman is expected to see time in both the outfield and infield this season as the Rockies look to maximize his versatility.

  • Freeman made his Spring Training debut on Thursday, March 6, 2026.

The players

Tyler Freeman

A utility player for the Colorado Rockies who was acquired in a trade with the Cleveland Guardians last year. He is expected to play both in the outfield and infield this season.

Robert Gasser

A left-handed pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers who Freeman faced in his first at-bat of the spring.

Mickey Moniak

An outfielder for the Colorado Rockies who scored from third base when Gasser picked him off first.

Jake McCarthy

An outfielder who the Rockies added to their roster over the offseason.

Willi Castro

A multi-positional player the Rockies added this offseason who is expected to see time at second base.

Edouard Julien

A utility player the Rockies added to their roster this offseason.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I forgot how fun it was to put a uniform on and play on the field.”

— Tyler Freeman (mlb.com)

“I played the infield and only the infield in my Minor League career, so I'll be OK bouncing back into the infield whenever they call me.”

— Tyler Freeman (mlb.com)

What’s next

The Rockies will continue to monitor Freeman's health and progress this spring as they determine his role for the upcoming season.

The takeaway

Freeman's versatility and ability to play multiple positions will be a valuable asset for the Rockies as they look to build a more balanced and flexible roster this season.