The Rockies’ strategy for pitching is based on attacking the strike zone with the fastball. The theory is the defense is so dependable, the only plays that can’t be stopped are the walk and the home run.

Third baseman Ian Stewart, shortstoop Troy Tulowitzki and second baseman Clint Barmes are bigger than average and tranaslate size into range. But one of the unsung advantages is they don’t have to be perfect with their throws because of first baseman Todd Helton’s ability to handle low throws.

I remember mentioning this last year, but here is the final 2009 stat from ACTA Sports:

Player                                  Scoops              Attempts    Pct.

Todd Helton, Col.                      183                    207          88.4

Adam La Roche, Pit.-Bos.-Atl.   182                    210          86.7

Albert Pujols, St.L.                    187                   217           86.2

Paul Konerko, CWS                  197                    231          85.3

Derrek Lee, ChC                       145                    171          84.8

Lance Berkman, Hou.                170                   201           84.6

Lyle Overbay, Tor                       211                   250          84.4

Casey Kotchman, Atl.-Bos.        134                   159           84.3