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One thing that everyone has been wondering lately is “Which number will the Rockies retire first?”  We’re not counting Jackie Robinson, as that is recognized across all MLB teams.  Do we put in a Blake Street Bomber? Or do we have another candidate?

That question might have been answered as of last week. On March 11th, Todd Helton signed a two-year extension. Not only did he take a pay reduction in what could be seen as his final 2 years as a player, but allowed a portion of it to be deferred over a 10 year span. This is highly unusual for Helton, who has not deferred payments before.  And yet, he did it for the team’s sake, to free up some money to retain the core team in the future. Helton is a cool man, while putting up the great numbers over his career. He is also the first ‘homegrown’ Rockie. He has been with the Rockies for his entire time… and word is that he has a position available with the team even after his playing time expires. He was the cornerstone of this modern Rockies team.

It’s no wonder why people are talking about Helton should be the first number retired among Rockies fans and even sports writers in general. The Rockies have not retired a number, or started their team Hall of Fame* yet. And, really, who would be deserving such an honor?  Maybe some of the Blake Street Bombers, such as Dante Bichette, the Big Cat, or even Larry Walker would be good choices. And their numbers may be retired and placed in the Hall of Fame*.  But yet, the recent contract extension is pulling in arguments to let #17 be the first one, being the special honor. Yeah, we are not like the Red Sox in requiring an elite service time and quality of a player to retire his number. But everyone agrees the first number has to be special. Maybe we will retire Todd’s number in 2014, the year he retires. Who knows.

On a related tangent, it was announced that Dante Bichette will be honored for his achievements in his service. This is set for April 26th pregame. This seems to hold a bittersweet thought in my mouth. On the one hand, it is a good gesture. It’s needed. Yet, it makes me wonder why they wouldn’t retire his number. This is probably due to all the talk and rumor about Helton starting the Hall of Fame and retiring his number. Only time will tell what will happen in the future.

Yet, if the talk is right, Helton should be the first one retired, having the special opportunity. Then we can talk about retiring some of the BSB crew from the 90s.

* Hall of fame refers not to the one in Cooperstown, NY, but rather the team HOF–in other words Colorado’s HOF.