What Was the Denver Baseball Team Before the Colorado Rockies? A Brief History

Before the Colorado Rockies became a staple of Major League Baseball in 1993, Denver had a rich baseball history with several teams.

The most notable team before the Rockies was the Denver Bears, a Minor League team that played in various leagues from the late 19th century up to the late 20th century. The Bears were well-loved by local fans and were considered a critical part of Denver’s sports culture.

The Denver Bears achieved significant success in the Minor Leagues, even earning recognition as one of the greatest minor league teams of all time.

Their existence laid the groundwork for the eventual arrival of Major League Baseball in the city, following years of effort to secure a franchise. When the Rockies finally debuted, they carried forward this tradition, transforming the Denver baseball landscape into a Major League one.

The transition from minor league to Major League Baseball not only marked a new era for the city but also fulfilled the dreams of many fans who had long supported their local teams.

The legacy of the Denver Bears is an important chapter in the story of baseball in Denver and paves the way for understanding the Rockies’ impact in the MLB today.

Historical Overview of Denver’s Baseball Teams

Denver has a rich baseball history that predates the arrival of Major League Baseball (MLB) in the 1990s. The city hosted several teams that laid the groundwork for the Colorado Rockies.

The transition from minor leagues to major leagues highlights Denver’s growing baseball culture and its strategic steps towards becoming a hub for professional baseball.

Pre-MLB Baseball in Denver

Before MLB, Denver was home to several minor league teams. The most notable was the Denver Bears, established in 1921. They played in various leagues, including the Western League and later the American Association. The Bears gained popularity and were known for their strong following, often drawing large crowds to Bears Stadium.

In 1961, the Denver Bears became an affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, enhancing their talent pool. The team won several championships during the 1980s.

The success of the Bears helped show that there was a strong demand for baseball in Denver. This paved the way for future pro teams and reinforced the city’s passion for the sport.

Another attempt at a major league team came with the proposed Continental League in the early 1960s, which ultimately influenced the eventual expansion to MLB.

Transition to the Major Leagues

The push for a Major League team reached a peak when Denver was granted an expansion team in 1991. This marked a high point for local baseball after years of dedicated support for the Bears.

Bob Howsam, a key figure in the city’s baseball history, played a significant role in these developments. The team began play in 1993 as the Colorado Rockies, entering into the National League’s West division.

The Rockies quickly attracted attention, setting an all-time record for attendance by drawing 4,483,350 fans in their inaugural season.

This success mirrored Denver’s commitment to baseball, bridging the minor league roots with major league aspirations. The Rockies’ entry into MLB signified a new era for baseball in the Rocky Mountains, firmly establishing Denver as a key player in the world of professional baseball.

Era of the Colorado Rockies

The Colorado Rockies’ era has been marked by significant milestones, remarkable players, and notable achievements. Their journey through Major League Baseball showcases both triumphs and challenges, reflecting the team’s growth since its inception.

Milestones and Achievements

The Colorado Rockies joined MLB as an expansion team in 1993. Within a few years, they made their first postseason appearance in 1995, finishing with a record of 77-67.

A standout moment came in 2007, known as “Rocktober,” when the Rockies reached the World Series for the first time. They clinched the NL Wild Card and swept the Philadelphia Phillies and Arizona Diamondbacks to secure their spot.

Despite falling to the Boston Red Sox in the World Series, this achievement cemented their status in baseball. In 2018, the Rockies won their second NL West title and made another playoff appearance.

Key accomplishments include multiple playoff appearances, highlighted by their consistent competitive spirit.

Influential Players and Leaders

Throughout its history, the Rockies have featured many influential players.

Todd Helton, a longtime first baseman, holds numerous franchise records and was a five-time All-Star. His contributions to the team were pivotal in building a strong foundation.

Nolan Arenado, known for his exceptional fielding and hitting ability, quickly became a fan favorite. His dynamic presence on the field played a significant role in the team’s success.

Other key figures include Larry Walker, a Hall of Famer, and Vinny Castilla, both of whom helped elevate the Rockies’ status in MLB.

The team also saw contributions from Dinger, their beloved mascot, and stars like Matt Holliday, Carlos Gonzalez, and DJ LeMahieu, who all played crucial roles in various seasons. Each of these players added to the rich legacy of the Rockies.