Rockies Re-Sign Catcher Jacob Stallings: A Strategic Move for Stability

The Colorado Rockies have announced a crucial roster move, re-signing catcher Jacob Stallings to a one-year deal with a mutual option for 2026. According to reports from MLB.com's Mark Feinsand and The New York Post's Jon Heyman, the contract is valued at $2.5 million, including a $2 million salary for 2025 and a $500K buyout on a $2 million mutual option for 2026. Stallings also has the potential to earn up to $3 million, presumably through incentives or bonuses. With this signing, the Rockies' 40-man roster is now full.

It's no surprise to see Stallings return to the Rockies. After joining the team last year, he had a solid season and clearly enjoyed playing in Colorado. Despite initially declining a $1.5 million mutual option for 2025, Stallings opted for a $500K buyout, likely hoping to secure a higher guarantee. His new deal surpasses the $1 million difference between the buyout and the mutual option, achieving his goal.

In 2024, Stallings played 82 games for the Rockies, making 281 plate appearances. He hit nine home runs and maintained a strong walk rate of 9.6%. His overall batting line was .263/.357/.453, translating to a 114 wRC+—his best offensive performance in any season with at least 20 plate appearances.

Defensively, Stallings' performance has seen mixed reviews. While he was a standout with 42 Defensive Runs Saved from 2019 to 2021—the highest of any catcher during that period—his defensive metrics have declined in recent years. Over the past three seasons, he has a -15 Defensive Runs Saved rating, including a -6 in 2024. Although outlets like Baseball Prospectus and Statcast praise his blocking skills, they rate his framing and ability to control the running game less favorably.

Despite these defensive concerns, Stallings fits well into the Rockies' current situation. Drew Romo, considered the club's long-term solution behind the plate, is still developing. At just 23 years old, Romo made his major league debut but struggled offensively in 16 games. He may benefit from further seasoning in Triple-A, where he has less than 100 games of experience.

In the 2025 season, Stallings could serve as a mentor and backup for Romo, or take on more playing time if Romo continues to develop in the minors. Utility player Hunter Goodman is also an option as a third catcher on the roster, but the Rockies might consider adding another veteran catcher to provide additional support.

The Rockies are focused on long-term growth, having endured six consecutive losing seasons and over 100 losses in each of the past two campaigns. While there are positive developments within the team, allowing Romo time to adjust to the big leagues is critical. Stallings’ veteran presence can aid in this process, helping with training, developing relationships with pitchers, and other essential aspects of being a major league catcher.

​Re-signing Stallings represents a strategic move for the Rockies, providing stability and experience as they navigate the challenges of developing young talent and striving for future success.