Los Angeles – Without the swing, the pendulum never moves. Without Todd Helton’s walkoff home run nine days ago, there is no winning streak. To his teammates, it exists as the defining moment. When Helton returned to the clubhouse, they were waiting with a standing ovation, providing a clear window into part of their motivation.
“We wanted to let him know that we appreciate and respect the way he plays the game,” shortstop Troy Tulowitzki said. “To get him into the playoffs would make it extra special.”
Along with his team, the perception of Helton has changed dramatically this month. As recently as mid-August, there were grumblings about whether Helton should hit cleanup or if the Rockies should consider trying to trade him again this winter. He has batted .402 in September with 18 RBIs; this, after nearly being dealt to the Boston Red Sox last January.
“I don’t listen to other people to begin with,” Helton said. “It’s satisfying what has happened. All I am concerned with is winning. I am not worried about all that other (stuff).”
Manager Clint Hurdle called the dynamic Helton brings to the middle of the order important and says Helton’s charge has “helped turn public sentiment” in his favor. As far as Hurdle is concerned, he doesn’t think the Rockies should consider revisiting trade talks, questioning why Helton, who has a complete no-trade clause, would want to leave now.
“Personally, I see it working so well. I’m one of those who firmly believes that if something works, leave it alone,” Hurdle said. “This isn’t just something that’s going to be a one-year wonder.”
Pen-ultimate experience
The Rockies wouldn’t be in the playoff race without the bullpen’s finishing kick. Entering Wednesday, Colorado’s relievers had a 2.86 ERA during the streak.
“Sometimes in these situations you see players that don’t want to be the goat,” veteran Matt Herges said. “Our attitude is that we are going to take the ball and shove it (down the other team’s throat).”
Big show in Lodo
The Rockies can expect big crowds at Coors Field this weekend when NL West-leading Arizona comes to town for a three-game series.
“We are selling lots and lots of tickets for this weekend,” said Sue Ann McClaren, vice president of ticket sales and operations. “Friday and Saturday’s games could be sellouts, and we’re selling a lot for Sunday, too.”
– Patrick Saunders
