We think we're better than most people think we are.
Even though it's early, that's a common theme at Rockies Spring Training in Scottsdale, Arizona.
When pitchers and catcher reported on Thursday, February 18, left-hander Kyle Freeland said they would try to "shock the world" by performing far beyond the low expectations many people have of the club.
On Friday, Feb. 19, top starter German Marquez expressed confidence that the Rockies will have a good season.
"We're going to be a surprise for everybody," Marquez said in a Zoom call with reporters.
Marquez thinks that, in part, because of the quality group of starting pitchers the Rockies have.
"I've been watching the guys and they look good. We have a lot of confidence in ourselves and we have experience."
Manager Bud Black said on Saturday the Rockies could be poised for a quality season if the starters stay healthy and pitch like they can.
"If [German] Marquez, [Jon] Gray, [Kyle] Freeland, [Antonio] and whoever nails down that fifth spot, if they can make 30-plus start [each], we're going to be just fine. We're going to be o.k. If those guys make their starts, heads up."
The Rockies open Cactus League play on Sunday, February 28 against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Full comments from Marquez, catcher Elias Diaz and new pitcher Robert Stephenson are below.