Colorado Rockies Tickets

The Rockies aren't getting any better, but they say at least now they are headed in the right direction. It's hard to tell by the record, though. They tied with the Pirates for the worst record in the National League in 2005, their fifth straight losing season and the team's worst record since its first season in 1993.
Colorado continued its youth movement with even more vigor in 2005, giving 10 rookies opportunities to be significant contributors. Lefthander Jeff Francis led major league rookies with 14 wins, though like most pitchers, he struggled with Colorado's altitude and had a 5.68 ERA. The best of the rookie hitters was Garrett Atkins, who held down third base and led all rookies with 89 RBIs. Shortstop Clint Barmes also was on his way to a strong season as the leadoff man before he broke his collarbone, and he finished the season batting .289 with 10 home runs in 81 games.
About the only significant veteran left is first baseman Todd Helton, who had his usual strong season with a .320 average, .445 on-base percentage and .534 slugging percentage. Lefthander Brian Fuentes emerged in his first full season as closer, putting up a 2.91 ERA and 31 saves.
The Rockies didn't make significant additions in the offseason, so they'll have to hope the young players will continue to improve. The club has sunk so low there's nowhere to go but up at this point, but to hope for playoff contention in 2006 would be too optimistic for even the biggest Rockies booster.