KANSAS CITY — Rockies infielder Jeff Baker insists that he’s not driven to prove people wrong. He just wants to make the most of his opportunity.
He could hardly do better than the last homestand. Baker won National League Player of the Week honors today, edging out teammates Matt Holliday, Brad Hawpe and Milwaukee first baseman Prince Fielder among others.
“I am glad I could have a good week that could help us get some wins,” said Baker today before heading to the ballpark for the beginning of a three-game series against the Kansas City Royals.
Baker homered in four consecutive games, including an inside-the-park laser, batting .423 in 23 at-bats. Baker has been receiving the bulk of at-bats at second base. That could change tonight with Clint Barmes returning, but there’s plenty of room for Baker’s bat with the designated hitter in play tonight.
Baker, 27, is trying to find his foothold with the Rockies, his star-crossed career interrupted by injuries or blocked positions. He’s a natural third baseman, who lost 18 pounds over the winter as he made the transition to second. He can also play first base, if necessary, and the two corner outfield spots.
Both manager Clint Hurdle and general manager Dan O’Dowd have said it’s important they get a good read on Baker’s offensive potential this season.
“He just has to stay healthy. We have seen glimpse before, and now we would like to see it over a whole season,” O’Dowd said.
Barmes returns
The hot-hitting Baker will remain in tonight’s lineup against the Royals. He will bat second as the designated hitter.
Clint Barmes returns to the club after missing more than a month a knee injury. He will start at second base and hit from the ninth spot.
Barmes rejoined the Rockies after a rehab assignment with Triple-A Colorado Springs.
Tonight’s lineup:
CF Taveras
DH Baker
LF Holliday
1B Helton
3B Atkins
RF Hawpe
SS Tulowitzki
C Iannetta
2B Barmes
And LHP Jeff Francis will start on the mound.
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com
