"The Rockies have a number of directions they can pursue to address third base, an offensive sinkhole last season.

While a trade cannot be ruled out — the top targets, Kevin Youkilis of the Red Sox and David Wright of the Mets, are longshots for now — there's a possibility that money will be allocated for second base with third base filled internally. Under that scenario, Ian Stewart would remain part of the equation, possibly in a platoon with Jordan Pacheco or Chris Nelson.

Before the left-handed hitting Stewart can even think about recovering from last year's failure — no home runs and six RBIs in 136 plate appearances — he must get healthy. His sprained left wrist has healed sufficiently to begin offseason workouts, but not baseball activity."