SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. —
The announcement rolled eyes and shook heads. Last Monday, Rockies manager Jim Tracy was given an indefinite contract extension. Indefinite is a word usually associated with a leave of absence, not lifetime security.
General manager Dan O’Dowd said he would like Tracy to become the Rockies’ version of Walter Alston, who managed the Dodgers for decades on one-year deals.
Sifting through the words and talking to several sources, more clarity emerged regarding Tracy’s status. The Rockies want him to remain forever in the organization, but that doesn’t mean only as the manager.
The Rockies view their front office in a unique manner, with everyone from Tracy to assistant general manager Bill Geivett seen as officers of the club. Tracy’s division is currently the team. Could that change in two years if the Rockies don’t reverse course? Definitely.
Tracy has been extended through at least 2013, a pre-emptive strike against distractions if the Rockies struggle the first few months.
O’Dowd’s preference is that he “never has to talk to the (media) again” about Tracy’s future. Still, beyond 2013, the handshake deal is more likely to work as a yearly rollover. In other words … Rockies: “Do you want to stick around?” Tracy: “You bet.”
But the ambiguity provides the Rockies and Tracy the ability to switch his role if necessary. They like what Tracy stands for, the example he sets with his hard work and genuine kindness. For me, that’s what this decision was about more than anything else, keeping him in the fold in some capacity.
The Rockies were historically patient with Clint Hurdle. He was the first manager to post losing seasons in his first five years on the job without getting fired. His one winning record was a doozy — the 2007 World Series run.
Hurdle eventually reached his expiration date in May 2009, unable to jar the team after the dreadful 2008 season. The Rockies never put a number of wins on their manager; it’s not their way. But Tracy knows this team must improve and firmly believes it will from last year’s embarrassing 73 victories.
This club suits his personality better, loaded with veterans who play the game correctly without brow-beating and constant tutoring. If the Rockies’ rotation eats innings — that means Jeremy Guthrie and Jhoulys Chacin post career seasons and either Drew Pomeranz or Juan Nicasio reach double figures in victories — the team will be a surprise. It will also play to Tracy’s strength of managing the bullpen, something he did deftly in 2009 and 2010.
He believes there is unfinished business, wants the Rockies to establish success that’s not viewed as an aberration. He’s been given time. But it’s not indefinite without success.
Footnotes. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel identified Dino Laurenzi Jr. as the sample collector that Ryan Braun hinted was responsible for his positive test. Laurenzi is the director of services for United Hospital System in Wisconsin. Have to wonder if he will soon become that state’s Steve Bartman. Most players I have interviewed believe that Braun will take legal action against baseball. … Former Rockies outfielder Ryan Spilborghs figured he had a great shot to make the Indians, and that was before Grady Sizemore was sidelined until early April with a back injury. “I am playing all three outfield positions. Great group of guys, great staff. I am enjoying the change,” Spilborghs said.
Troy E. Renck: 303-954-1294 or trenck @denverpost.com
