"From Outback Steakhouse to the penthouse.

Rockies first baseman Todd Helton spent three days in Casper on a rehab assignment, buying the team spread at Outback, before returning Tuesday to the Rockies. His legs stronger and back better, Helton was activated, hitting second in the lineup.

"I had fun up there. They made me feel younger," Helton said of his stint with the short- season Ghosts.

Helton remained unsure of his status when he arrived at the ballpark, and was less certain after Dexter Fowler avoided the disabled list. But the Rockies wanted Helton in the second spot in the order, so Jonathan Herrera was the tough-luck roster casualty.

"I don't want to throw too much on his plate," manager Jim Tracy said, tempering expectations for Helton. "But knowing the damage that CarGo and Tulo are doing, it makes us better if Todd's getting on in front them. He knows how to reach first base."

Helton's situation is a day-to- day proposition based on his health. He singled in his first at-bat, rifling a shot to left field, before striking out in his second plate appearance.

Helton was Shamu in a small pond. Locals followed him around Casper before games, and the club set attendance records. One opposing pitcher even talked smack to him in Spanish, telling Helton how he was going to bust him inside. Helton promptly delivered a hit."