Colorado Rockies Tickets

The Colorado Rockies fell way behind in the National League West race for the second straight season, only this time they couldn't battle their way back into contention.

The Rockies made a major move in the offseason, unloading star outfielder Matt Holliday before he became a free agent. The club knew they would not be able to re-sign him, so they figured they might as well get something in return.

Holliday's loss will hurt, especially at home, where his numbers were off the charts. The good news is that the club still has a number of power bats in the lineup to try and pick up the slack.

Holliday was the team's top offensive player, but at least they have plenty of other hitters throughout the lineup.

It would certainly help if first baseman Todd Helton could turn back the clock and reverse his decline over the past few seasons. Helton started out hot in 2008 but eventually faded as the weather grew hot.

Shortstop Troy Tulowitzki will be a major key to the offense. He had a terrible 2008 season that was marred by injuries, but his strong rookie campaign in 2007 is probably a realistic expectation.

The Rockies will also need improved play from outfielder Brad Hawpe and third baseman Garrett Atkins, their two other big sluggers who both saw a drop in numbers in 2008 as well.

The starting rotation has been an issue each year of the team's existence, and don't expect that to change in 2009. It's nearly impossible to entice any respectable free agent pitchers to Colorado because of the thin air that makes 8-7 games a routine night at the ballpark.

The team has grown so desperate that they are counting on Greg Reynolds to return to form after missing last year with an injury. Reynolds isn't getting any younger and hasn't been a solid pitcher for several years, so I'm not sure they should be pinning their hopes on his right arm.

After losing Brian Fuentes to free agency in the offseason, the Rockies made a trade for closer Huston Street. It's a gamble given Street's injury-riddled past, especially when considering Fuentes' effectiveness.

The Rockies have the offense to compete with anyone, but the pitching is a trainwreck at best. Still, if they can take of winning their home games, they should be able to at least hang around in the division race.