TUCSON — Todd Helton and Jason Giambi are the older brothers of the Rockies’ family. They get privileges based on age and accomplishment. Manager Jim Tracy told The Denver Post that neither one will play in a spring training game until late next week.
“They will be on a similar program,” Tracy said. “They know what it takes to get ready for a season.”
The schedule for the 36-year-old Helton was mapped out after Tracy talked with trainer Keith Dugger over the winter. Helton acknowledged that he was gassed when the Rockies reached the playoffs, and for the first time, is open to substantially more days off because of Giambi’s presence.
Hitting instructor Don Baylor said Helton and Giambi, 39, will make their debuts between Wednesday and Friday next week during the Rockies’ three-game homestand against the Royals, Rangers and Giants.
“I will play when they tell me to. But my whole goal is getting ready for the season,” said Helton, whose Rockies open the Cactus League Thursday against the Arizona Diamondbacks. “My back feels good.”
Baylor indicated that Helton won’t be taking any bus rides as a concession to his surgically-repaired back. Helton hit .325 with 15 home runs and a .416 on-base percentage last season.
“With Todd, his swing is such that he can hibernate for awhile and bring it out. He can flat-out hit,” Baylor said. “I told him two months ago that we would use spring just to get his legs underneath him.”
Giambi will likely play before Helton because Tracy wants to replicate the way he will be used during the season. That means he will come off the bench against a tough reliever.
“I don’t need too many at-bats. It’s about staying healthy for the season,” Giambi said. “With the bench we have, and the way Tracy uses guys, every (starter) in here should have a career year.”
Street improves
Closer Huston Street’s right shoulder is healing. He will resume throwing Thursday on flat ground, long-tossing at 120 feet.
“We will see how it reacts. It’s showing good signs,” Street said.
Rags to riches
The Rockies finished their ragball competition in elaborate fashion with infield coach Rich Dauer dressed in a purple robe and felt Uncle Sam cap, entering to the Olympic music. Dauer hit soft baseballs at the pitchers, who received points for every ball they caught. Matt Belisle won the competition, edging Huston Street and Franklin Morales and Jimmy Gobble.
Asked how he was going to celebrate his victory, Belisle said, “I am going to Disneyland.”
Footnotes
Brad Hawpe (left big toe) took BP without any issues. He could play as soon as this weekend.
… Troy Tulowitzki broke out his new Nike cleats he helped designed. The black flap over the laces reads: 2Low with a purple cross in the 0.
… Looking a bit weak and tired, center fielder Dexter Fowler returned to practice Wednesday after missing two days with a stomach virus. Fowler took BP as he eases back into the routine.
… Pitcher Jason Hammel will start against the Diamondbacks opposite of Billy Buckner. Among the regulars who will play: Ian Stewart, Chris Iannetta and Miguel Olivo, Carlos Gonzalez and Seth Smith.
… Angels’ closer Brian Fuentes is scheduled to pitch Friday against his former team.
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com.
