Phoenix – Todd Helton was wearing a T-shirt on Saturday proclaiming second baseman Jamey Carroll as the Rockies’ spark plug. In Helton’s estimation, Carroll also is worthy of a Gold Glove.
“He has the numbers,” Helton said. “He’s the best second baseman I have played with. The way he turns the double play is what impresses me most. It’s automatic.”
Heading into Saturday, the Rockies had turned 165 double plays, most in the National League.
Carroll, getting part-time duty lately as the Rockies take a look at Kaz Matsui, leads all National League second basemen with a .995 fielding percentage. He entered Saturday with just three errors in 563 total chances.
Rockies manager Clint Hurdle has no doubts Carroll has been the NL’s best fielding second baseman.
“He makes the backhand play and throw as good as anybody I have seen,” Hurdle said. “He doesn’t have as much style as other people do, but he makes that play.”
Carroll, who makes modesty an art form, said he doesn’t think about the award, but admits he takes extreme pride in his defense.
As for Helton’s comments, Carroll said: “That’s important. When a teammate like Todd makes a statement like that, you know you’ve earned the respect of your peers.”
FOOTNOTE: Helton hit fifth Saturday night as Jeff Salazar got the start in center field and hit second. If the Rockies can find a center fielder worthy of hitting second next year, there’s a good chance Helton will hit fifth behind cleanup hitter Matt Holliday.
