Q>> With the retirement and loss of leadership from Charlie Blackmon, what is Bud Black’s reason to return as manager? Losing another 100 games has to weigh on his psyche. He isn’t responsible for the talent he is provided. A manager in baseball doesn’t scheme or substitutes like NFL or NBA coaches. Maybe a better GM or scouts could provide talent to compete with the Dodgers, Braves, Phillies or Padres.

— Robert Emmerling, Limon

Patrick>> You’re correct when you say that the losses weighed on Black, who’s now 67. However, he’s an incredibly positive person, and that serves him well.

There are several reasons why Black might return for his ninth season as manager. First, I don’t believe he’s ready to step away from the game. He loves the day-to-day job of being a manager. That said, I could see him taking on a front-office role.

Second, Black likes the teaching aspect of being a manager and is excited about the system’s young pitchers. He wants a chance to help mold them at the big-league level.

Third, I believe Black would hate to go out on the back of two 100-loss seasons.

Regarding Blackmon’s retirement, I don’t believe that’s a major factor in Black’s decision.

You’re correct that the front office has not supplied Black with enough talent to win. That’s especially true with the Rockies’ underwhelming offense.

Finally, I have talked to several veteran players about Black’s future. They told me that Black still has the players’ respect and is well-liked. However, a couple of players told me that a new, fresh voice would be good for the team.

Q>> Any thoughts on Bobby Meacham finally getting a chance to helm this team with no word on Bud Black’s contract extension? I loved seeing what he did at Double-A Hartford winning manager of the year and I find it hard to believe anyone has a better overall resume. I know it would be his first time managing in the big leagues, but he knows these young guys, knows the organization and clearly had buy-in from his Hartford team. I think he’s the right guy for the job in the event Buddy doesn’t return.

— Colton Lohmann, Denver

Patrick>> That’s an intriguing idea. You’re correct, Meacham did a great job with the Yard Goats. Plus, his connection with talented, young players at Hartford would be a plus.

Having said that, the Rockies also like third base/infield coach Warren Schaeffer, who used to manage at Triple-A Albuquerque.

Regarding Black’s status, a couple of people close to the manager have told me that Black expects to return. However, the fact that the Rockies are delaying an announcement, as well as Black’s reluctance to talk about the situation, makes me wonder if he is coming back.

Q>> Who gets your vote for Rockies MVP? And better yet, why?

— Ed Helinski, Auburn, N.Y.

Patrick >> I’m sure you’re not surprised when I tell you it’s shortstop Ezequiel Tovar.

• He shined at a premier defensive position and led the Rockies in batting average (.269), home runs (26), doubles (45), and OPS (.764) (among qualified players).

• Tovar became just the sixth shortstop in major league history to reach 26 home runs during his age 22 season or younger. The others: Corey Seager (2016), Alex Rodríguez (1996, ’98), Cal Ripken Jr. (1983) and Willie Wells (1927).

• He became the seventh player to record 175-plus hits, 45-plus doubles, and 25-plus homers during their age-22-or-younger season, joining Rafael Devers (2019, Boston), Albert Pujols (2001, St. Louis), Álex Rodriguez (1996, Seattle), Cal Ripken Jr. (1983, Baltimore), Jack Clark (1978, San Francisco) and Hal Trosky (1934, Cleveland).