"There are moments that create pause, literally placing the chin in the palm. Jumped in the car last week, flipped on the radio and there was Morrissey crooning as I drove to speak to the Optimists Club.

The Minister of Mope is not exactly Knute Rockne.

The contradiction, of course, made me think of baseball. In this, their 20th season, the Rockies have declared it the "Year of the Fan." It comes at a time when their followers are growing increasingly frustrated with the team.

Year of the Fan? If the Rockies are going to contend this season, it better be the Year of the Arm. It's deliciously ironic that in Year 20 the Rockies have come full circle. Their lineup is loaded, a combination of speed, power and experience. If Dexter Fowler reaches base consistently and Michael Cuddyer?'s power mushrooms at altitude, Colorado will rank among the league's best on offense.

Truth is, the Rockies will have to mash to win. Just like in the first years of the franchise. Look at this roster and it's clear, barring a trade of outfielder Seth Smith? for pitching, that the Rockies are only going as far as their rotation will take them."