The Colorado Rockies waived first baseman Warming Bernabel on Saturday, allowing the 23-year-old to clear waivers and elect free agency. Bernabel, who debuted in 2025, had a brief stint with the team after being called up in July. This move leaves the Rockies' roster at 37 players ahead of the MLB Winter Meetings.
The Colorado Rockies parted ways with first baseman Warming Bernabel on Saturday, designating him for assignment as part of ongoing offseason adjustments. Bernabel, signed for $900,000 out of the Dominican Republic in 2018, made his Major League debut in 2025 and quickly earned National League Player of the Week honors during his first full week. Called up on July 26, he appeared in 40 games, batting .252 with four home runs and 14 RBIs. He took over at first base from Michael Toglia, who was recently non-tendered and became a free agent, but Bernabel's role ended after a late-season concussion.
This is the second time Bernabel has been removed from the 40-man roster; the Rockies designated him before the 2024 season to add utility man Alan Trejo. Despite a history of back injuries, Bernabel overcame personal challenges, including gunshot wounds from a robbery attempt in the Dominican Republic, to reach the Majors.
The waiver clears space on a roster now at 37 players, three below the limit, as the team heads into the MLB Winter Meetings starting Monday in Orlando, Florida. New president of baseball operations Paul DePodesta and general manager Josh Byrnes have emphasized the organization's talent, but recent moves have seen several homegrown players depart following last year's 43-119 season. These include Toglia, lefty Ryan Rolison (traded to the Braves), catcher Drew Romo (claimed by the Orioles), and righty Anthony Molina (claimed by the Braves).
The Rockies may target a first baseman through free agency or trade. Prospect Charlie Condon, the No. 61 overall and Rockies No. 2 prospect selected third in the 2024 MLB Draft, is expected to compete for the position after a strong first full professional season and Arizona Fall League performance. The current roster features two 2025 debutants: Blaine Crim, who started with the Rangers before joining the Rockies, and Troy Johnston, claimed after his Marlins debut.