Jordan

Pacheco

He’ll also play a little first and second, so it sounds like he’ll be in there most every day for the Rockies. He wasn’t really any good in Triple-A this year -- hitting .278/.343/.377 at as fine of an offensive environment as Colorado Springs is hardly worthy of note -- but the Rockies want to see if he should be a part of their 2012 plans. That gives him a little value in NL-only leagues.

Helton is out of the lineup for the sixth straight game Monday, but similar to his teammate Troy Tulowitzki, he is getting closer to returning. Jordan Pacheco will make another start at first base Monday against the Padres.

Rockies manager Jim Tracy wants to get a look at Wilin Rosario and Jordan Pachedo behind the plate in the final series of the season. Iannetta is batting .236/.370/.407 with 13 homers this year. He could be trade bait over the offseason.

He is now 0-for-10 this spring with four strikeouts. Meanwhile, Jordan Pacheco is batting .455 in 22 at-bats, and has reached base safely in all 10 of his games. Quite simply, Blake is running out of time to prove he can be a reliable contributor this season.

Nelson hit .275 in Cactus League play and, according to Troy E. Renck of the Denver Post, “showed soft hands defensively, which is why he’s expected to get the nod over Jordan Pacheco in the early going.” The Rox were originally planning to use Nelson in a utility role this season, but they don’t really have many options at the hot corner until top prospect Nolan Arenado is ready.

Pacheco’s poor defense has limited his playing time in the early going, as he’s started just two games so far. We’re not that high on his bat either, so one wonders if he might not be in for some more Triple-A time at some point.

Pacheco has not looked sharp defensively at the hot corner thus far, but Tracy told reporters Monday that the 26-year-old former catcher is “making progress.” Chris Nelson drew the start at third base in Monday’s game against the Giants and could begin seeing more playing time at the position if Pacheco doesn’t improve.

The big day pumped up Pacheco’s spring average to .467 over 15 at-bats. Pacheco started at catcher Wednesday, and he also has the ability to play both corner infield spots, as well as second base. He could find his way into some NL-only value if he wins a roster spot, especially if Casey Blake doesn’t make the team.

Pacheco had been sharing time at third base with Chris Nelson. Utilityman Jonathan Herrera figures to provide infield depth in the short-term.

Pacheco made the Opening Day roster, but was sent down after struggling offensively to begin the season. He figures to be used in a part-time role with Chris Nelson and Jonathan Herrera. The Rockies have yet to announce a corresponding roster move, but Guillermo Moscoso could become expendable with Jeremy Guthrie (shoulder) set to return from the disabled list next week.