Four Tiny Tidbits On: The Rockies

We re only a couple of weeks from Opening Day, so it s time to start previewing the season. Inspired by an old feature on The Black Table, we re going team-by-team and distributing Four Things You Don t Know about them. If you have suggested oddities on your team, send them to us at [email protected]. Today: The Colorado Rockies.

• 1. For Some Reason, They Don't Take the Elevator. In June 2005, rookie shortstop Clint Barmes, who was in the midst of a fantastic season, injured himself when he fell while hauling deer meat upstairs to his apartment. And so he joined the litany of odd injuries that have befallen such stars as Sammy Sosa (hurt his back with a sneeze) and Jeff Kent (injured while allegedly washing his truck).

• 2. Mr. Miyagi Would Be Proud. Pitcher Mike Esposito's father, Joe, sings with the musical act Cat Daddy in Las Vegas. The group is most famous for their song on the Karate Kid Soundtrack, "You're the Best." Joe Esposito has been nominated for three Grammys.

• 3. We Would Advise Not Rushing the Mound. The Rockies pitching staff includes Jason Jennings (6-2, 240), Ray King (6-1, 240), Jose Mesa (6-3, 235) and Brian Fuentes (6-4, 220). And in a fight, they can summon infielder Ryan Sheely (6-4, 230) off the bench. Of the five, it's King's weight that seems to be the most underreported.

• 4. The Have Cool Balls. With permission from Major League Baseball, the Rockies store their balls in a humidity and temperature controlled room. The room keeps the humidity at 40 percent, compared with 10 percent or less humidity often felt in other parks.

(Tomorrow: The Detroit Tigers)