Fort Carson soldiers threw out the first pitch. A flyover shook Coors Field as a local police officer sang the national anthem.
Reminders were everywhere of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the United States, honoring those who serve and remembering lives lost.
In the days leading up the four-year anniversary, Rockies catcher JD Closser decided to do something special. Sunday, he wore a helmet emblazoned with the American flag and a bald eagle, originally commissioned for the team’s Fourth of July game.
“The helmet was made by Todd (Greene) and myself. Neither of us played that game so I asked if I could use it today,” Closser said. “I wanted to do it to show that I am happy I am alive, and how proud I am to be an American.”
BREATHER FOR HELTON: Todd Helton understands he will be given a breather on this road trip, a concession to a long season and Ryan Shealy’s presence on the roster.
“He deserves an opportunity with someone. He can play in the big leagues,” Helton said of Shealy, who will likely be shopped this winter. “He can hit and he has soft hands on defense.”
Helton, never keen on missing a start, has been less receptive recently since he already spent 15 days on the disabled list. Helton is hitting .371 since July 1.
FOOTNOTES: Matt Holliday sits six at-bats shy of qualifying for the batting title. His .301 average, buoyed by Sunday’s three-run double, would rank in the top 10. … The Rockies continue hammering out a contract for reliever Mike DeJean, with the expectation an agreement will be reached soon. … Pitcher Aaron Cook allowed his first home run in 49 2/3 innings when Troy Glaus went deep in the fourth inning. … Hot-hitting Cory Sullivan started for the 15th time in the past 18 games, but manager Clint Hurdle is not ready to commit to him as next year’s starting center fielder. … Garrett Atkins extended his hitting streak to 16 games, tying Juan Pierre’s rookie record.
