Could Todd Helton return to the Rockies?

Yesterday during an interview with MLB Network Radio on Sirius XM's "Inside Pitch" show, Todd Helton opened the door about a possible return to the Rockies organization. Thomas Harding has the scoop.

Helton eyes role in Colorado organization - Thomas Harding / MLB.com

Now before you get too excited, Helton specifically mentioned that he does't know if he wants a role back in uniform right now, so if you're thinking about him in a hitting coach position, that's probably not going to happen anytime soon. Here's a key quote:

"Absolutely, I'd love to get back into the game -- I've had two years off now, and I think that's enough. I don't know if I want to get back into uniform, because you're still traveling, and traveling is what gets you. I still have young kids I'd like to get into the game somehow and make an impact."

Still, Helton returning to the organization wouldn't be anything new for the Rockies. Jeff Francis and Aaron Cook both came back to the organization while they were still playing after leaving. Vinny Castilla had three stints with the Rockies and is still around in a Special Assistant to the GM role. Walt Weiss is the manager, and Dante Bichette came back as the hitting coach for 2013. In other words, players with important roles in Rockies history tend to find their way back to the club after leaving as a player or via retirement. Considering Helton's history here, it's not hard to envision him back with the club in some role in the not too distant future.

MLB Now: Zach Wilson Interview

On Monday, Zach Wilson, the Rockies Sr. Director of Player Development joined MLB Network's afternoon panel to discuss how the organization continues to try and stock cupboards with young, impact arms.

How does trade for McGee fit big picture? - Thomas Harding / MLB.com

Now that the Dickerson for McGee swap is official, Harding breaks down what it could mean for the opening day roster as well as the 2016 outlook. Despite Jeff Bridich refusing to talk about a rebuild, Harding still leaves that door wide open for July when he tries to sort out "where is this all heading?"

Any sane forecast of the National League West says the Rockies are no closer to contending after their moves this winter. If the season turns funky by the Aug. 1 non-waiver Trade Deadline, the Rockies are in position for a fire sale. Among the candidates: outfielder Carlos Gonzalez, who will have a year and change left on his contract; De La Rosa, in his last year; center fielder Charlie Blackmon, with two years of club control, and even McGee, Qualls and Motte could bring in nice returns.

One other important note in there in case you haven't heard yet is that MLB moved the trading deadline this year from July 31st, to August 1st since the 31st falls on a Sunday. It should go back to the 31st in future seasons.

Kershaw on lack of DH in NL: 'It's just a better game. It really is' - Mike Axisa / CBS Sports

Add Clayton Kershaw to the list of star pitchers in the National League who want no part of the American League's chicanery and their cronies (including the author of that piece) trying to push its "inevitability". As National League fans continue to outpace American League fans at the gate as they have for the last few decades, there's no reason they should have a brand of game they don't want jammed down their throat.