While Colton Welker was Colorado’s fourth round pick in the 2016 draft, his $855k signing bonus eclipsed that of fellow top-five PuRP and third round pick Garrett Hampson, hinting at his importance to the organization. The now 21-year-old third baseman, who was converted from shortstop in pro ball, has rewarded the Rockies with excellent play at all three minor league stops so far. In fact, if not for an abdominal strain that kept him out of play for two months in 2017, Welker would have been a strong contender for the South Atlantic League MVP as he led the league in average, on-base percentage, and OPS as a 19-year-old.
Colorado Rockies prospect rankings: No. 3, Colton Welker
