TUCSON — On a day when the future looked bright with Jhoulys Chacin, Todd Helton provided another blast from the past Monday. Helton exceeded last spring’s home run total with his second in five games.
“I am ready for the season to start,” said Helton, who admitted he’s ahead of schedule. He drilled a 430-foot shot to left-center.
While tiring of talking about himself, Helton praised Chacin. Just 21, the club’s top pitching prospect is making a strong bid to start in Triple-A. The right-hander surrendered three runs in three innings, but his sinker and changeup appear big-league ready.
“I love him. He works fast and gets groundballs,” Helton said.
Hirsh farmed out.
Jason Hirsh’s bid for the fifth starter’s spot ended abruptly Monday as he was optioned to Triple-A Colorado Springs. The centerpiece of the Jason Jennings trade two years ago, the right-hander has yet to regain his fastball velocity since injuring his shoulder a year ago.
“It’s disappointing, but I kind of saw it coming,” Hirsh said.
The following players were also sent to the minors: pitchers Samuel Deduno, Shane Lindsay, Ryan Mattheus, Steven Register, Matt Daley and Brandon Hynick, infielders Hector Gomez, Chris Nelson and Eric Young Jr., catcher Michael McKenry and outfielder Matt Miller.
Footnote.
Garrett Atkins’ right hip injury is now a groin problem. The injury occurred during agility drills. Said Atkins: “I am not sure how much longer it’s going to be. I won’t be concerned until the trainers are concerned.” . . . Jeff Baker (elbow) is close to returning.
Troy E. Renck, The Denver Post
Rockies Recap
At the plate
Utility man Christian Colonel nearly reached Ajo Drive with his ninth-inning home run. “Are you going to write about that?” manager Clint Hurdle asked. In a word, yes.
On the mound
Huston Street extended his scoreless streak to three innings by retiring six consecutive hitters. Pitching against minor-leaguers, Aaron Cook worked six innings, allowing three earned runs on 78 pitches.
In the field
Left fielder Carlos Gonzalez showed off his athleticism with an over-the-shoulder catch to rob Tony Clark. Todd Helton, who will play again today, had no problem charging on bunt plays.
Up next
The Rockies host the Royals today at 2:10 p.m., with Ubaldo Jimenez starting on the mound for Colorado.
Troy E. Renck, The Denver Post
