Jeff Baker in Pinstripes; Colorado Rockies Look to Deal Utility Man to Yankees

The Colorado Rockies have a good problem on their hands. They have too much talent.

With Ian Stewart's play continuing to impress in Spring Training, the Rockies are going to have a difficult time not putting him on the opening day roster. 

Stewart is slated to play a little bit of left field, as well as some third base when Garrett Atkins moves over to first base to give Todd Helton a breather.

Stewart does still have options remaining, therefore he can be sent out to AAA Colorado Springs to ensure that he is getting at bats every day, but at some point, the decision is going to need to be made.

Does Ian Stewart need a third year in Colorado Springs or is he ready to perform at the big league level? 

That decision may greatly impact the future of third baseman/super utility man Jeff Baker.

The New York Yankees have been looking for a cheap third baseman to fill the void of Alex Rodriguez, who is out until at least May after undergoing hip surgery. Various reports are suggesting the Yanks interest in Baker.

The Rockies could acquire Colorado native Mark Melancon, a pitching prospect who went a combined 8-1 in the minors last year between high A ball and AAA.

Melancon was out for the entire 2007 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery.  He was born in Wheat Ridge and raised in Golden.

Baker has been a highly regarded member of the Rockies for the past couple of years.  He has a tremendous amount of power, can hit for average, and displays the ability to play almost any position on the field.

The Rockies have long wondered what he could do if he was given the opportunity to play on an every day basis.  Unfortunately, that chance has never arisen as Baker has seemed to be the odd man out in most position battles.

This spring, a slight elbow injury has all but ensured the second base job to Clint Barmes, which seemed to be the most promising position for Baker to get his foot in the door with.

He was drafted as a shortstop out of Clemson, but was converted to third base, and was the Rockies opening day starter at third in 2005 when Garrett Atkins started the year on the disabled list.

Since then, Baker has been a super utility man, playing primarily third base, but seeing action in right field, left field, first base, and second base. 

Baker's ability to bounce around and his undoubted power, along with his lack of minor league options, make him a prime trade candidate.