BRAD AUSMUS would be an interesting off-season possibility for the Rockies in their attempt to strengthen their catching. An original Rockies expansion draft choice, Ausmus is regarded as one of the premier handlers of pitchers in the game. The expectation is he will return to Houston, but if the Astros don't re-sign pitcher Roger Clemens, that could change, and the Rockies would be among the most active suitors for Ausmus.
Left-hander Shawn Estes doesn't rule out a return to the Rockies, but his first desire is to re-sign in Arizona, where he lives in the off-season.