Durango53
09-11-2006, 12:43 PM
Rockies manager Clint Hurdle's decision this season to make Todd Helton the No. 2 hitter and build the lineup around Garrett Atkins at No. 3 and Matt Holliday runs deeper than simply a reaction to Helton's struggles this season.
Hurdle said he will think more about next season after this season ends, but he doesn't think he'll change his strategy regarding Atkins and Holliday. When Hurdle made the move on July 22, he said Atkins is "our best hitter." Chances are, he'll feel the same when 2007 hits.
Atkins has announced his arrival as an emerging star by driving in 103 runs going into Sunday's finale of four against the Nationals. He had driven in 154 runs since the All-Star break of 2005.
The question becomes where to hit Helton, who had functioned well in the No. 2 spot. If Helton regains his power and ability to produce runs -- he never had a chance this year because an early-season stomach ailment zapped his strength -- he could fit better at No. 5.
You can tell Helton isnt as strong as he has been. Still hitting doubles there are some of those that would have gone over the fence if he was ok. But man what he went though with that stomach ailment was a killer. Losing all that weight so fast and then being asked to come back in a lineup and swing. He did a great job this season just getting what he did. I would keep Helton at 2 and let him just swing like he always does. He is a great double hitter and that fits well in the second hole. And if the Rockies can find a guy that can hit lead off and get on base that could be a good season for Todd.....
Hurdle said he will think more about next season after this season ends, but he doesn't think he'll change his strategy regarding Atkins and Holliday. When Hurdle made the move on July 22, he said Atkins is "our best hitter." Chances are, he'll feel the same when 2007 hits.
Atkins has announced his arrival as an emerging star by driving in 103 runs going into Sunday's finale of four against the Nationals. He had driven in 154 runs since the All-Star break of 2005.
The question becomes where to hit Helton, who had functioned well in the No. 2 spot. If Helton regains his power and ability to produce runs -- he never had a chance this year because an early-season stomach ailment zapped his strength -- he could fit better at No. 5.
You can tell Helton isnt as strong as he has been. Still hitting doubles there are some of those that would have gone over the fence if he was ok. But man what he went though with that stomach ailment was a killer. Losing all that weight so fast and then being asked to come back in a lineup and swing. He did a great job this season just getting what he did. I would keep Helton at 2 and let him just swing like he always does. He is a great double hitter and that fits well in the second hole. And if the Rockies can find a guy that can hit lead off and get on base that could be a good season for Todd.....