"Jason Giambi left the game, and the clubhouse, early after a four-hit day, leaving behind his baseball-designed Rice Krispies Treat in celebration of career game No. 2,000.

Three chunks were missing, one for every run he contributed in the Rockies' 4-2 victory over St. Louis. After a sluggish start to his season, when he struggled to get above .200, Giambi is batting .259 since April. He figures to keep getting a lot of playing time with first baseman Todd Helton placed on the 15-day disabled list Wednesday.

"He works hard every single day to get better," said Carlos Gonzalez, who scored on Giambi's single in the fifth inning. "You have to stay focused even when you struggle, and you have to believe in yourself. He has always had the confidence."

Possibly as important to the Rockies as Giambi regaining his swing is his timing in getting hot. The Rockies need him now more than ever, with the loss of Helton and an 11-game Eastern road swing immediately after the all-star break."