"Creativity and flexibility remain critical to fixing the Rockies.

Yes, the drywall cracked in the clubhouse, leaving no doubt that the culture must change. Team-first over me-first. Got it.

But even with the right attitude, the Rockies need the right players. The current group isn't good enough to contend. Let's say, for argument's sake, Jorge De La Rosa and Juan Nicasio defy conventional wisdom and return at a high level. The Rockies still would require an innings-guzzling starter and multiple lineup fixes.

OK, start with the offense. The Rockies have expressed interest in free-agent second baseman Jamey Carroll?. He was a pillar on the 2007 playoff team, and would help with the attitude adjustment that general manager Dan O'Dowd seeks. Carroll is a winning player, unselfish and would fit snugly in the No. 2 spot in the order. The question is, can the Rockies afford a hitter with no power?

Having slugging shortstop Troy Tu- lowitzki gives the luxury of going without muscle at one other spot, but not two.

Carroll, 37, enjoyed his time with the Rockies, and he has interest in a reunion. But Carroll deserves market value — and the going rate is two years, $8 million, established by Florida's Omar Infante?. I can't see the Rockies going there, which could preclude Carroll or the return of Mark Ellis, which hasn't been ruled out."