The Old Pro

Todd Helton had the worst year of his big league career last season. He must have been embarrassed at the final totals of 8 homers, 37 RBI's and a .256 batting average, well below his career .324 mark.
Back trouble sapped him of strength and he spent much time on the disabled list.
However, having watched Helton for most of his career, even seeing him in the minors at New Haven in AA ball, I have to think that Helton has at least one more good season in him. Maybe not great but good. He's a proud guy and if he thought he would have another dismal season like last year, I don't think he would have returned. If he thought he was finished then he would have walked away from all the money. I'm convinced of that simply because he's a team player first and foremost and he's always been that way.
I'll make a prediction on Helton's numbers this season. I'll go with 17 homers (his uniform number, which one day will be retired), 83 RBI's and a batting average of .314. How's that? Would you take it? I bet Helton wouldn't because he thinks he can do better. And I hope he does.
One thing to point out about Helton is this. Actually two things. One: Despite injuries and age (he's 37) his fielding has never suffered. He's had struggles at the plate at times but never with the glove. Two: I hope they have Helton Burgers again at Coors Field. Last year, they had a concession stand under the left field scoreboard that sold Helton Burgers. They were mighty tasty and well worth the trip from the press box.