Do the Rockies need an MVP candidate to compete?

Purple Row's Cory Cohen examines whether the Colorado Rockies require an MVP candidate to contend for a playoff spot or if roster depth can suffice. Historically, every Rockies playoff team was anchored by an MVP contender such as Larry Walker, Matt Holliday, Troy Tulowitzki, or Nolan Arenado. Cohen calculates that reaching an 85-win threshold requires roughly 37 total Wins Above Replacement, necessitating at least 24 to 25 fWAR from the lineup assuming an upgraded pitching staff.

Cohen argues that while fielding nine quality starters and multiple All-Stars could theoretically reach contention without a superstar, the margin for error remains slim. Because the Rockies' highest-upside prospects remain in the lower minor leagues, Cohen concludes that acquiring or developing a true MVP-caliber talent offers the most plausible path to sustainable postseason contention.