"Here's how quickly Todd Helton's lower back problems can re-emerge: One minute, Helton was hitting fifth in the Rockies' lineup on Friday night, the next minute, he was in the trainer's room.

"I was just out there running and I took a step and it locked up," Helton said. "I think we'll know more (today). I'm sore, more sore than I'd rather be, but I did the same thing in spring training and it took a couple of days. So, we'll see."

If it were any other Rockie, this might be a minor issue. But it isn't. It's Helton, whose career has spiraled because of a balky back. How worried is he?

"I'll be worried (today) if I don't feel some improvement," Helton said. "I'm not worried yet. I've just got to make sure when I come back, I'm strong and ready to go."

Given how things played out last year, when tests on Helton's back landed him on the disabled list for almost a month, it's conceivable he could return to Denver for more tests if his back doesn't improve by today."