Colorado Rockies Trade Rumors: Ryan McMahon and Jake Bird Attracting Trade Interest

By Oliver Wiener June 07, 2025 10:31

As the Colorado Rockies continue to endure a historically poor 2025 campaign, trade rumors surrounding key players like third baseman Ryan McMahon and reliever Jake Bird are heating up ahead of the July 31 trade deadline. With the Rockies sitting near the bottom of the standings and facing a rebuilding phase, both players have emerged as potential trade chips for contending teams seeking to bolster their rosters.

Ryan McMahon: Veteran Presence with Offensive Ups and Downs

Ryan McMahon, the Rockies’ longtime third baseman and a 2024 All-Star, has been a fixture in Denver since his MLB debut in 2017. Despite his tenure and leadership role, McMahon is having a career-worst offensive season in 2025, batting just .208 with six home runs, nine doubles, and 17 RBIs, accompanied by a .672 OPS and a 1.1 WAR. This marks a significant decline from his career averages, which include a .244 batting average, 24 home runs, and 80 RBIs per 162 games from 2019 to 2024.

While his offensive struggles have raised questions, McMahon’s defensive prowess remains a strong asset. He has accumulated seven defensive runs saved this season, showcasing his value on the field despite his offensive slump. His walk rate is also notable, ranking in the 92nd percentile, highlighting his plate discipline even amid a down year.

Contractually, McMahon is signed through 2027, earning $12 million in 2025 and $16 million annually in 2026 and 2027. This sizable commitment complicates potential trades, as teams must weigh his defensive value against his offensive inconsistency and salary. The Rockies’ front office, historically resistant to trading McMahon due to his status as an ownership favorite, may now reconsider given the team’s dire record and rebuilding needs.

Trade Interest and Potential Suitors

Several teams have expressed interest in McMahon, including the Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, and New York Yankees. The Cubs are reportedly evaluating McMahon as a solution to their third base instability, while the Dodgers see him as a possible upgrade over Max Muncy, who is in the final year of his contract. The Yankees, struggling to find a consistent third baseman, could also view McMahon as a fit, especially given his defensive skills and leadership qualities.

However, McMahon’s offensive splits raise concerns. His career wRC+ has never surpassed 97, and his road performance (.658 OPS) is significantly weaker than his home numbers at Coors Field, the most hitter-friendly ballpark in MLB. This disparity may temper trade offers, as acquiring teams must consider his true offensive value outside Colorado’s unique environment.

Jake Bird: Reliever on the Rise

Alongside McMahon, reliever Jake Bird has attracted trade interest due to his strong 2025 performance. Bird boasts a 1.60 ERA with 42 strikeouts over 33 2/3 innings, making him one of the Rockies’ most effective bullpen arms. His ability to generate ground balls and miss bats positions him as a valuable mid-to-late inning reliever for playoff contenders.

Bird’s contract status and salary are more manageable than McMahon’s, increasing his appeal as a trade candidate. Teams in need of bullpen depth are likely to monitor Bird closely as the deadline approaches.

Rockies’ Outlook and Strategy

The Rockies’ historically poor start on pace to challenge the worst records in modern MLB history has prompted organizational changes, including the recent dismissal of manager Bud Black. Owner Dick Monfort has signaled a willingness to “turn the page” and evaluate all areas of the operation, suggesting more roster moves could be forthcoming.

Trading McMahon and Bird would align with a broader strategy of accumulating young talent and shedding payroll as the Rockies rebuild. While McMahon’s contract and ownership ties complicate matters, his recent hot streak in May (.333/.443/.667 over 61 plate appearances) may increase his trade value.

As the July trade deadline nears, Ryan McMahon and Jake Bird stand out as Colorado Rockies players most likely to be moved. McMahon’s combination of veteran leadership, defensive skill, and contract length make him a tantalizing but complicated trade asset, while Bird’s strong bullpen performance offers a more straightforward value proposition. For a Rockies team seeking to rebuild, leveraging these players could be a crucial step toward reshaping the roster and setting a new course for future competitiveness.