Rockies Rumors: Fuentes, Street, Rusch, Podsednik

"Keeping Atkins doesn't make any sense at all."

I disagree. Atkins has what Stewart does not, yet. Proven consistency. Even though Atkins, like most of the team, had a year down from 2007, he was a stable and consistent force. You'd hope to see 2009 be better, but even in 2008 he never slumped for long, he's not as streaky as some players but pretty even keeled. That's a plus. And Ian came up from the Springs once in summer 08 and struck out at an alarming rate, next time he came up he got hot, then cooled toward the end of the year. Not discounting Stewart's potential but they're going to have a lot of young players. A little stability in Atkins can be huge.

Also, there's Helton to think of. Say his back problem worsens and he's on the DL for an extended amount of time like last year, then where will they be? - I don't think it would be wise of the Rockies to get rid of Atkins who can do 1st or 3rd. I don't want to speak ill of Helton, but what if Spring training comes and it becomes apparent his back is going to continue to be an issue? I think the Rockies do need to keep that in mind as well.

If Helton can't continue, I would be just as comfortable putting Baker out there. You do make a good point that Atkins is steady, though.

"If they can get STARTING PITCHING then I think moving Atkins makes sense"

Oh yes, as much as I do not want to see Atkins go, if they can get good starting pitching it would make sense. I was just disputing the comment that said keeping Atkins doesn't make any sense at all. It depends on the situation.

I did forget that Baker can play a variety of positions as well so the Rockies do have that in their pocket if they get an offer they just can't refuse on Atkins.