Carroll is happy with new deal

Two-year contract finally gives Rockies infielder some security

Jack Etkin, Rocky Mountain News

Published January 4, 2007 at midnight

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A breakthrough season with the Rockies has given infielder Jamey Carroll a measure of security, heretofore a foreign concept for him.

Carroll, who will turn 33 on Feb. 18, agreed to terms Wednesday on a two-year, $4 million contract that includes a club option for 2009.

"I've always been kind of the last guy to make it on the team," Carroll said. "So this is definitely something that's very rewarding.

"And to know where you're going to be and what

you're going to be doing is definitely a different mind-set for myself and for my family as well."

The Rockies purchased Carroll from the Washington Nationals in February for $300,000. He hit .300 with 23 doubles, five home runs, 36 RBI and 84 runs in 136 games - all were full-season career highs - and led National League second basemen and set a team record for the position with a .995 fielding percentage.

After earning $700,000 last season, Carroll's salaries will be $1.7 million in 2007 and $2.15 million in 2008. The deal also includes a $150,000 buyout, with a club option for $2.5 million in 2009 that could increase to $3 million based on combined plate appearances (1,200) or games started (260) in 2007 and 2008.

Carroll's role as the Rockies' regular second baseman changed with the arrival of Kaz Matsui in late August.

Manager Clint Hurdle has told Carroll he will get at- bats this season while playing at second base, shortstop, third base and possibly the outfield.

CATCHING UPDATE: After getting a close look at catcher Javy Lopez, the Rockies remain interested in him and former Rockies players Sal Fasano and Sandy Alomar Jr. to add depth to the position.

MINOR MOVES: The Rockies announced the addition of former closer Bryan Harvey to their minor league staff as pitching coach with Single-A Asheville.

Jerry Weinstein will manage Single-A Modesto. He most recently was an assistant coach with Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and formerly was the Los Angeles Dodgers' player development director.

Duane Espy, the Rockies' hitting coach the past four seasons, will be the hitting coach with Rookie League Casper, where Tony Diaz will manage after coaching there six seasons.

Former Rockies pitcher Mark Thompson has left the organization after one season as pitching coach with Casper for a higher-paying sales job.

Video coach Mike Hamilton will become a professional scout for the Rockies based in Texas. Brian Jones, who had been Hamilton's assistant, will replace him.

etkinj@RockyMountainNews.com

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