The loss of Criswell means the Rockies will move into the heart of spring training without another right-hander who originally figured into the competition for an Opening Day roster spot. Colorado visits the Tampa Bay Rays to open the season on March 28.

While Criswell was likely on the bubble for an Opening Day roster spot, his loss means perhaps more opportunities to impress this spring for Angel Chivilli, Jake Bird and Jaden Hill, all pitchers who were in competition with Criswell for a place in the bullpen and saw time with Colorado in 2024.

Along with who gets the final spots in the Rockies bullpen, another competition to watch involving Colorado relievers is who will eventually be crowned as the team's closer. Lawrence had experience in the role, but was one of eight Rockies to record at least one save in 2024.

Look for a close battle between Seth Halvorsen (two saves last season as a rookie), Tyler Kinley (a club-leading 12 saves last year) and Victor Vodnik (nine saves in his second MLB season) to determine who will start the year in the closer's role.