Jason Jennings’ fingerprints are all over the Rockies’ record book. From victories to games started, Jennings ranks first. But as he pitches tonight, a mark sits within reach as significant as any he has accomplished. Jennings has a 3.61 ERA, a tick better than the Rockies’ 3.66 starter record established by Joe Kennedy in 2004.
“That would mean a lot,” Jennings said. “I know the park is playing differently, but it’s still not an easy place to pitch.”
It would also help ease the sting of a difficult season. Jennings has managed to rank near the top of the National League in innings pitched, hits per nine innings and, um, losses, victimized by poor support.
DEJEAN WANTS TO STAY: Veteran reliever Mike DeJean, who made only one appearance this season before undergoing shoulder surgery, plans to begin a throwing program soon and insists he will be ready without limitations in spring training. The question is, for whom will he be pitching? He has a mutual option next season with the Rockies. Said DeJean: “I plan on pitching two or three more years. And I want to retire a Rockie.”
HELTON IN THE HEART: First baseman Todd Helton returned to the fifth spot in the Rockies’ batting order Monday night, which manager Clint Hurdle said could be a preview of next season. Hurdle acknowledged it’s a better fit for the ballclub if Helton hits in a run-producing spot.
Helton’s bat has shown more thunder the past two months. Of his past 53 hits, 25 have gone for extra bases.
