Walkerless

Well, as expected, I've survived the first week without Larry Walker as a member of the Colorado Rockies. It hasn't been quite as difficult as anticipated, given that I knew he would eventually be leaving. I figured it would be this offseason. In the long run, I believe it was the best move for the organization. With the money saved, the Rox can sign Jennings, Kennedy, Burnitz and Estes. Jennings and Kennedy will most likely compose 40% of the Rockies' rotation for quite some time. Burnitz and Estes will help maintain some credibility until a few of the young players are ready in the next year or so.

Back to the subject though, Larry Walker. I'm convinced that he is the best all-around player I will ever see play in person, hands down. He could do everything well. In his prime he was a perfect example of a five-tool player. A five-tool player hits for average, hits for power, has speed on the bases, has a strong throwing arm and is a strong defensive fielder. I saw him hit tape-measure home runs, run down fly balls in the gap with ease and even throw out a runner at first on a single to right.

Walker joined the Rox in 1995 as a free agent and quickly became my favorite player. He even became my wife's favorite player. Back then, and to some degree now, she thought that baseball was boring. However, she enjoyed watching Walker play. Shoot, when we adopted our son from India, we named him Walker.

Over the years, there's only been two negatives against him. First, for most of his career he has battled injuries. Second, in the last few years some have questioned his desire. Despite these issues, Walker was one of the best when he was on the field. He is the franchise leader in nearly every offensive category. Todd Helton will likely someday pass Walker in some, if not all, these categories, but Walker will still hold a special place in the hearts and minds of Rockies fans.
It was truly an honor to watch one of the best play the game on a daily basis. Here's to Larry Walker. Good luck in St. Louie.