Helton to miss third game, DL stint possible

DENVER -- First baseman Todd Helton, who has a left forearm strain, did not play for the second straight game on Sunday. Helton suffered the injury when his hand came off the bat on a swing in the first game of a doubleheader Tuesday against the Mets. The Mets and Rockies were snowed out Wednesday, but Helton played Thursday against the Mets and Friday against the D-backs before resting Saturday.

Helton said he received an anti-inflamatory injection Sunday and will not play on Monday against the Braves. Helton said if his forearm is still store Tuesday, a trip to the disabled list could be considered.

After going 2-for-21 to open the season, Helton is hitting .268 (11-for-41) with three doubles, one homer and 10 RBIs. At 39, Helton is in the final year of his contract and possibly playing his final season in a career spent entirely with the Rockies. For them to get off to such a torrid start has been particularly satisfying and enjoyable for Helton.

"The [wins] are just a product of everything else we do right," Helton said. "You're going to go through bad stretches, we know that. But it's OK. The way we play the game right now, our energy, our competitiveness -- it's just fun to show up at the ballpark every day. I'm having the time of my life. I really am."