Rockies Attempt To Jump Hurdle By Starting Over

Clint Hurdle, who led Colorado to its only World Series just two years ago, was fired by Rockies today. Bench coach Jim Tracy will replace Hurdle. (Photo courtesy of New York Times)

Two years ago, the Colorado Rockies had a sensational end to the regular season, capped off by a win in their winner-take-all playoff game to represent the National League as its wild card; where they eventually made it into the World Series against the Red Sox. If Colorado is to get there again, however, they will have to do it under the direction of a new manager after Clint Hurdle was fired today. Hurdle had been the Rockies' skipper since replacing Buddy Bell less than a month into the 2002 campaign, but started 18-28 this season. He will be replaced by Rockies bench coach Jim Tracy, who has previous managerial experience in the National League West with the Dodgers. Tracy also managed the Pittsburgh Pirates before landing in the Coors Field dugout.