The Colorado Rockies have decided to hire Paul DePodesta as their next President of Baseball Operations. The team announced the hire on Friday afternoon. This move signals a dramatic change in the team’s organizational philosophy and player development strategy, aiming to align the Rockies with the data-driven approach that defines today’s most successful franchises.
Rockies Hire Paul DePodesta as President of Baseball Operations
DePodesta’s Resume
Paul DePodesta, 52, stands among the most respected executives in modern baseball. He gained fame for his groundbreaking “Moneyball” strategy with the Oakland Athletics, where he used sabermetrics—advanced statistical analysis—to identify undervalued players and build competitive teams despite tight budgets. DePodesta’s methods reshaped how Major League Baseball front offices evaluate and acquire talent, proving that analytics could outperform intuition.
The Colorado Rockies announced today that Paul DePodesta has been named the club’s president of baseball operations, effective immediately.
Welcome to Denver, Paul! pic.twitter.com/dtb4M3TD88
— Colorado Rockies (@Rockies) November 7, 2025
DePodesta built an impressive resumé through key roles with the Cleveland Indians, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and New York Mets. In each position, he emphasized data-driven decision-making, earning recognition as one of baseball’s most forward-thinking strategists.
In 2016, DePodesta transitioned to the NFL, joining the Cleveland Browns as Chief Strategy Officer. He brought his analytical mindset to football operations, integrating evidence-based strategies into draft preparation and roster construction. His influence helped transform the Browns into a more modern, efficient, and analytics-focused organization.
Philosophy
Since the rise of Moneyball, front offices—particularly in smaller markets—have adopted data-oriented strategies to stay competitive. The Tampa Bay Rays offer the best example of this model. With one of the lowest payrolls in Major League Baseball, the Rays consistently develop elite players and field playoff-caliber teams.
The Colorado Rockies now appear ready to follow that model under Paul DePodesta. His arrival represents a clear shift toward efficiency, innovation, and long-term sustainability. Rather than relying on traditional scouting alone, the Rockies aim to merge advanced statistics with on-field insight to improve player acquisition and development. This philosophical overhaul could finally push the franchise toward sustained success.
The Rockies’ Future
The Rockies have endured consistent struggles since 2019, often ranking near the bottom of the National League West. Hiring Paul DePodesta marks a potential turning point for a franchise. DePodesta’s leadership could change how the Rockies operate, from scouting and drafting to player analytics and farm system management.
Colorado has rarely produced homegrown stars beyond Nolan Arenado and Trevor Story, but DePodesta’s track record suggests a renewed focus on development. His data-driven approach could strengthen the Rockies’ farm system and introduce a more sustainable path to competitiveness.
The organization must now hire a new manager after parting ways with Bud Black midseason. The next hire will likely share DePodesta’s commitment to analytics, ensuring cohesion between the front office and dugout.
By bringing in Paul DePodesta, the Colorado Rockies are not just hiring an executive—they’re embracing a new era built on innovation, evidence-based decision-making, and a clear vision for future success.
Main Photo Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
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