"They've spent more than 13 seasons with the Rockies, winning 124 games, between them.

But as the Rockies finished their home schedule Wednesday, there was a lingering possibility that Jeff Francis and Aaron Cook may not start for the team again.

Francis is done for this season, scratched Sunday in favor of Esmil Rogers. Since returning from the disabled list, Francis has not pitched well, allowing four home runs in 10 2/3 innings spanning three starts.

Manager Jim Tracy said he would "absolutely" like Francis to return as a free agent after the club declines his $7.5 million option. But Francis is a tough read because of his shoulder surgery. His velocity dipped after he was shelved in August.

"To me, there's no question in my mind that I can be every bit as good as I was earlier this year and a few years ago," Francis said.

Cook, out since Sept. 8 with a broken right leg, is guaranteed $9.75 million next season. That figure prompted the Rockies to shop him at the trading deadline, but his final two starts have forced them to reconsider their stance. After 14 straight days on a mound on his rehab assignment and endless video sessions, Cook cleaned up his mechanics."