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Rockies Notes: Bill Geivett, Rotation, Michael Cuddyer

By Daniel Seco [September 2, 2012 at 7:30pm CST]

With an unconventional approach both on and off the field, the Rockies have attracted a great deal of attention for a team on pace to lose over 90 games this season. Beset by injuries, a payroll in the bottom half of the league and inconsistent pitching further hampered by altitude, Colorado seemingly has no choice but to think outside the box if it hopes to make a playoff run anytime soon. Let's head to the Mile High City and catch up on the latest news making headlines...

Bill Geivett's new role running the Rockies' Major League operations on a daily basis reveals a trend of untraditional thinking in the team's organization, but it may pay off, writes Troy E. Renck of The Denver Post. Instead of moving to the corner office, Geivett put a desk in the team's conference room located within the Rockies' clubhouse in hopes of getting a better grasp on where the club is struggling and how he can work to fix the problems. Colorado has already felt an impact from Geivett's presence as the team just enjoyed its first winning month since June 2011.
The Rockies' unusual decision to continue to go with a four-man rotation must discussed with the team's position players as Colorado will be more successful if everyone buys in, opines Renck. While there is data that suggests removing a starter before he faces a lineup for a third time is beneficial, Renck says the movement can't be sustained without players expressing confidence in the approach. Since making the switch in June, the Rockies' starting rotation has improved its ERA by over half a run.
Michael Cuddyer remains at peace with his decision to sign with the Rockies last offseason even amidst injuries and the team's inability to win games, writes Patrick Saunders of The Denver Post. The former Twins All-Star outfielder has found his niche by serving as a leader both on and off the field to the team's younger players. "He's very outgoing, always willing to help," said rookie Jordan Pacheco. "In spring training, he came up to me and said, 'I have played a couple of positions and I have been a utility guy before, so if you have any questions, just come ask me.' He's like that for everybody."