Rockies Star Named One of ‘Hottest Commodities' at Trade Deadline
Although it's not a surprise, the Colorado Rockies are in last place in the National League West in mid-May.
On the other hand, they enter May 17 just one game behind the San Francisco Giants and three behind the Arizona Diamondbacks, so the bottom half of the division is pretty close.
Still, the Rockies should be garnering trade interest in several players as the deadline gets closer.
It doesn't seem too likely that star outfielder Mickey Moniak gets moved, although that feeling could change if a massive offer is sent to Colorado.
However, one relief pitcher is considered one of the "hottest commodities" in baseball this time, according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
That is veteran pitcher Antonio Senzatela.
"Rival executives say that one of the hottest commodities at the trade deadline will be Colorado Rockies pitcher Antonio Senzatela," Nightengale wrote.
Senzatela, who was a long-time starter in the majors, made the transition to the bullpen this year and has been excellent.
As of May 17, Senzatela has appeared in 13 games with a 3-0 record and a 1.27 ERA with just eight walks, and he has become a reliable option for the Rockies.
Antonio Senzatela is 3-for-3 in save opportunities this year after nine seasons as a starting pitcher.
— Patrick Lyons (@PatrickDLyons) May 16, 2026
The feeling in the 9th inning makes his heart race and reminds him of pitching for the #Rockies in the 2018 postseason. pic.twitter.com/Uvzd0YKIB8
Senzatela is also in the final year of his five-year, $50.5 million contract, so contending teams might be interested in a veteran pitcher who has starting experience as well.
Senzatela Could be Buzzy Name Soon
In his MLB career, Senzatela has only pitched for the Rockies, but his time with the team could be coming to an end soon.
In 2025, he struggled as a starter, going 4-15 with a whopping 6.65 ERA, which was the second-worst of his career.
Still, teams could view him as a starting pitcher candidate or as a reliever, which would make him even more appealing at the deadline.
Last deadline, the Rockies traded away reliever Jake Bird to the New York Yankees in exchange for two prospects, and if Senzatela could net a similar return, it would be difficult for Colorado to say no to moving him.
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This story was originally published May 17, 2026 at 11:44 AM.