SI’s Tim Marchman ranks Colorado Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd No. 7 among baseball’s best bosses, citing his recovery from the Mike Hampton/Denny Neagle disaster to built a series of exciting, inexpensive teams.

A trade just before the 2009 season started brought the Colorado Rockies pitching depth in the form of Jason Hammel, who now stands tall as one of the more reliable fifth starters in baseball.

Multi-year contract signed over the winter and approach at the plate implemented late last year should help catcher worry and press less than in the past

More efficiency pitching from a stretch will enable Ubaldo Jimenez, who will draw the Opening Day assignment, to rise to No. 1 starter status.

Colorado Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd, whose plan for the team came together with savvy moves throughout 2009, is selected major league executive of the year.

Some quick hits on the Rockies and the off-season.

Rockies scout becomes director of player procurement for Washington.

Phillies strike for three in ninth against Rockies closer to move on to NLCS and end Rockies season

Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd’s contract expires after the season.

Pitching prospect will begin big-league career in Rockies bullpen

Hurdle is scapegoat for players who became focused on their stats, not team results

Clint Hurdle, 51, who was told of his dismissal Friday morning in a meeting with general manager Dan O’Dowd, was hired to manage the Rockies on April 26, 2002, replacing Buddy Bell. Bench coach Jim Tracy, who has ample experience managing in the majors, will replace Hurdle on an interim basis.