Rockies Bolster Outfield with Acquisition of Jake McCarthy from Diamondbacks
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Colorado continues to reshape its roster, acquiring outfielder Jake McCarthy from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for Minor League right-handed pitcher Josh Grosz. The move, announced today, brings a dynamic offensive threat to the Rockies while sending a young arm to Arizona.
A Proven Major League Talent
McCarthy, 28, brings a five-year Major League track record to the Rockies, having played with the Diamondbacks from 2021-2025. Over 431 career games, he has compiled a .260/.324/.381 slash line, showcasing his ability to get on base and contribute extra-base hits. He’s totaled 46 doubles, 20 triples, 24 home runs, and 139 RBIs, demonstrating a well-rounded offensive profile.
Notably, McCarthy is a significant threat on the basepaths, having successfully stolen 83 bases in his career with an impressive 84.7% success rate – tied for the 10th-highest percentage in the National League (minimum 70 attempts). His speed is a key asset, as evidenced by a sprint speed of 29.9 in 2025, ranking among the fastest players in the Majors.
Recent Performance and Defensive Versatility
While McCarthy’s 2025 season with Arizona saw him slash .204/.247/.345 in 67 games, his previous performance indicates a higher ceiling. In 2022, he finished fourth in National League Rookie of the Year voting, posting a .283/.342/.427 slash line across 99 games. He also enjoyed a career year in 2024, slashing .285/.349/.400 with a 3.0 fWAR over 142 games.
Defensively, McCarthy offers versatility, having logged starts in all three outfield positions: 157 in right field, 104 in center field, and 78 in left field, all while maintaining a .993 fielding percentage.
Draft History and Early Career
The Scranton, Pennsylvania native’s path to the majors was unconventional. Initially drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 23rd round of the 2015 First-Year Player Draft, he opted not to sign. He was later selected by the Diamondbacks in the Competitive Balance Round A (39th overall) in 2018 after a successful career at the University of Virginia.
Grosz Heads to Arizona
In exchange for McCarthy, the Diamondbacks receive right-handed pitcher Josh Grosz, 23. Grosz was originally acquired by Colorado from the New York Yankees as part of the Ryan McMahon trade on July 25, 2025. He appeared in seven games for High-A Spokane in 2025, posting a 1-6 record with a 5.87 ERA.
This trade represents a strategic move for both organizations, as the Rockies add a proven Major League outfielder and the Diamondbacks acquire a young pitching prospect.
