Chicago – A Rockies organization defined by stability is expected to have two coaching vacancies today.
Manager Clint Hurdle said he would issue a statement on his staff, but multiple sources said first-base coach Dave Collins will pursue other opportunities and hitting instructor Duane Espy won’t be asked back.
When asked if he was returning, Collins said he would discuss the issue today. Collins, considered one of the game’s best baserunning coaches, has made it clear he would like to be a big-league manager someday. Espy helped the Rockies break in several young players the past two seasons, but he heads an offense that failed repeatedly with runners in scoring position until September.
Potential hitting instructor candidates include former big-leaguer Glenallen Hill, a coach for Single-A Modesto; Jose Morales, a former hitting coach with the Giants, Indians and Marlins; and Lamar Johnson, who has worked with the Mariners, Royals and Brewers. He also has experience in Denver as the hitting instructor in Denver’s minor-league days with the Zephyrs.
MR. .300: Jamey Carroll’s breakthrough season will end with a memorable stat: .300. That’s Carroll’s final batting average after Hurdle purposely sat him once he reached the figure Saturday. “I think (.300) means more to my dad (Larry) than me,” Carroll said.
Carroll lost his mother unexpectedly last winter, making this his most challenging season. His father visited more frequently and attended the series at Wrigley Field.
“I am happy he was here. And I know my mom would be proud,” Carroll said.
FOOTNOTES: The organizational business retreat will be held Oct. 19-20 when a more precise payroll figure should be established. … At the winter meetings, all Rockies officials will be equipped with iPods featuring video on 40-man roster players and the team’s top free-agent and trade targets.
