The Colorado Rockies have taken a proactive approach this offseason, which is a significant shift from previous years. After suffering through a season with over 110 losses, the team had the option to stick with their current roster and hope for better results in 2026. Instead, they’ve made strategic moves in both free agency and the trade market, showing a commitment to rebuilding.

One of the most recent transactions involved trading Jace Kaminska to the Minnesota Twins in exchange for Pierson Ohl and Edouard Julien. While Ohl is still developing and has yet to fully establish himself at the MLB level, Julien brings a different kind of experience. He has previously shown promise as a player, making his mark during his rookie season with the Twins.

Julien’s first season in the majors was impressive. As a rookie, he hit 16 home runs, drove in 37 RBIs, and maintained a .263 batting average, a .381 on-base percentage, a .459 slugging percentage, and an OPS of .839. These numbers earned him a seventh-place finish in the Rookie of the Year voting that year.

However, Julien’s performance has fluctuated over the past two seasons. In 2024 and 2025, he struggled, posting a negative WAR in 158 games played. His 2025 season was particularly challenging, with a -0.8 WAR in just 64 games.

At 27 years old, Julien still has time to turn things around. The move to Colorado presents a fresh start, offering him the opportunity to be part of a rebuilding team. According to FanGraphs, Julien is expected to take over as the starting second baseman for the Rockies. This role also allows him to reunite with Willi Castro, a former teammate who joined the Rockies in free agency earlier this offseason.

For Julien, the key this season will be to demonstrate that he can be a consistent and disciplined hitter. Playing in over 100 games could be the catalyst for a resurgence, similar to what he achieved in 2023. Staying healthy and maintaining consistency are crucial for Julien, as he has everything to prove in 2026.

With spring training approaching, Julien has a chance to become a leader within the Rockies’ young roster. Hitting the ball hard should come naturally for him in 2026, especially considering that he will play 81 home games at Coors Field. This environment could help him regain his form and confidence.

Defensively, Julien is expected to pair with Ezequiel Tovar in the double-play combination up the middle. If both players can minimize errors, this defensive duo could provide a solid foundation for the Rockies. Given the team’s struggles in recent years, 2026 represents an opportunity for improvement, and Julien’s performance could play a pivotal role in that process.

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This article was originally published on www.si.com/mlb/rockies/onsi as How Edouard Julien Could Reignite Career With Rockies Opportunity.