Rockies should open Hall of Fame as part of the recognition of Todd Helton when he officially retires. They also should make No. 17 the first number the franchise ever retires.

Todd Helton shows his commitment to organization by reworking his current deal to keep the team together and adding two more years to allow him to finish his career with the Colorado Rockies.

Todd Helton will finish his career where it began. The Colorado Rockies and the first baseman, who ranks first in franchise history in most offensive categories, have agreed to a two-year, $9.9 million contract extension that covers 2012 and 2013.

Hawpe to play Thursday, Giambi on Friday and Helton on Sunday

Todd Helton returned to the Colorado Rockies clubhouse and will work out after illness kept him away Saturday. Brad Hawpe is likely to make his Cactus League debut Wednesday.

Concerned about his shoulder after playing catch Saturday, Colorado Rockies reliever Rafael Betancourt wanted to be examined by medical director Dr. Tom Noonan. The news Betancourt got should ease hit mind.

Colorado Rockies pitchers and catchers officially report to spring training Thursday, although many have already been in camp for a few days. Todd Helton got an early start on camp as well, joining the first group a week before position players were due to report.

After the Todd Helton roadbock diverted a fair share of Colorado Rockies first base prospects to new positions or new teams, the organization ran dry at the position for a few years. Now, in 2009 third-round pick Ben Paulsen, the Rockies have uncovered another promising prospect. Unlike the others, however, his arrival could coincide with the roadblock being removed.

The Colorado Rockies decided about 10 years ago to build around their slugging first baseman. Now, while the team is no longer built around a single player, Troy Tulowitzki anchors the middle of the lineup and the middle of the diamond, making shortstop the one position where the Rockies have no questions.

First base has been by far the most stable position in Colorado Rockies history — the franchise has had just two regular first basemen in 17 seasons. While no change at the position is likely this year or even next, the Rockies should be beginning to wonder what will happen beyond 2011.

Rockies blow 3-1 lead, tie game at 5 in the seventh but give up run in ninth and lose a 4 hour, 6 minute marathon

Lineup for Game 3 also includes Atkins at third base, Spilborghs in right field