What Colorado needs is a really good start, for reasons both competitive (the Rockies historically have dug too many early holes for themselves) and psychological (both manager Clint Hurdle and GM Dan O'Dowd are entering the final seasons of contracts). Problem is, only three of their first 14 games are at home. And they've already lost starter Jeff Francis for the season. Nobody will be surprised if a slow start results in bench coach Jim Tracy, the former Dodgers skipper, replacing Hurdle. Now, the good news: First baseman Todd Helton, returning from back surgery, has been outstanding at the plate this spring. And shortstop Troy Tulowitzki, the backbone of the '07 World Series team, is healthy after what can charitably be described as a learning year in '08.