A Fresh Start for a Rockies Power Hitter

Zac Veen, 24, has made dramatic changes to his life and body this spring. He added more than 40 pounds of muscle, moving from around 200 to a solid 245 pounds. The biggest shift happened off the field, where he said he had finally gotten sober after years of substance use. He admitted that during the previous season his drinking and daily weed habit took a toll on his performance. “I was in a rough spot, ” he said. “When I came home, I had to face myself and make a change. ”Veen’s new focus on health has paid off. He is hitting . 273 this spring, with two walk‑off home runs that sent the Rockies to victory. On Monday he launched a 113‑mph, 468‑foot blast into center field, and on Friday he hit another 447‑foot homer for a second walk‑off. The player’s turnaround was supported by his high school coach and the Rockies’ development staff, who helped him join a program for people dealing with addiction. He also began attending church and Bible study each week, saying the spiritual support was key to his recovery. Despite his recent success, Veen still faces a tough road to make the opening‑day roster. Yet if he keeps hitting at this level, it will be difficult for the team to ignore his talent.