As Paul Simon once sang, “The nearer your destination, the more you’re slip slidin’ away.”
That’s how I feel about this year’s Rockies.
I was among those convinced that this team had arrived as a formidable, year-in-year-out contender. They seemed so close.
The Rockies, supposedly, had depth, crisp fielding and execution, solid starting pitching, a sound bullpen and plenty of offensive firepower.
Now, I’m not so sure.
I know, I know, it’s early. The Rockies still have three-quarters of their season in front of them. But there are some disturbing trends emerging, not the least of which is their .242 team batting average on the road. (The National League average is .247).
Theories abound as to why the Rockies enter tonight’s game in Houston one game under .500 and 4 1/2 games behind the surprising Padres. Let’s take a look at five of those theories:
While I agree that he gave Cook the hook too soon, I have no problems with Tracy’s lineup juggling. Given the underwhelming performance of Helton, Barmes, Stewart, Dexter Fowler and others, I think it’s wise to proactively mix and match to find an effective lineup.
I’d rather see Tracy do that than let the season slip slide away.
Trivia time
Much has been made of the Rockies’ poor record in April, but the franchise has actually been worse in the month of May. Entering this season, the Rockies’ winning percentage was .459 in April (178-209) vs. .440 in May (211-268). In fact, the Rockies have posted a winning record in May just four times. Can you name the last time? (Answer below)
Polling
Tuesday’s “Lunch Special” poll asked readers: Who has been the most quotable sports figure in Denver. Former Broncos tight end Shannon Sharpe was the runaway winner with nearly 82 percent of the vote.
Quotable
“I’m not getting outs. There’s not a lot to analyze about it. It’s pretty obvious that I’m not getting it done. If there was an answer at this point in time, we would’ve found it.” — Brewers closer Trevor Hoffman after blowing his fifth save of the season Tuesday night.
Reader’s rant
“Here’s what I think will happen, (Kyle) Orton will start the season but go down with injury (because he’s as mobile as a snapping turtle). Brady Quinn will come in and make us wish for the good old days with Chris Simms. Then (Tim) Tebow will get his start and then we will find out if he can play or not.” — Junk Man, posting on Mark Kiszla’s column about the chances of Quinn becoming the Broncos’ starting quarterback.
Blog spot
The Post’s Lindsay Jones just keeps spinning.
In case you missed it
A change of scenery hasn’s helped former Rockies third baseman Garrett Atkins. He went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts Tuesday for the Orioles, dropping his average to .227. For now, Atkins remains the Orioles’ starting first baseman. But for how long?
“I’m not panicking,” Baltimore manager Dave Trembley told . “But concerned, yeah. Expect more? Yes. I expect more. I’m sure (Atkins) does as well. I’m sure there are a lot of guys who expect more, and maybe that’s part of the (offensive) dilemma.”
Trivia answer
The Rockies went 15-13 in May 2007. The other winning Mays were 1996 (14-11), 2000 (17-8), and 2002 (19-10).
Patrick Saunders: 303-954-1428 or psaunders@denverpost.com
