The Rockies seemed resigned to the fact that left fielder Matt Holliday, eligible for free agency after next season, and third baseman Garrett Atkins, a free agent after 2010, would rather test the open market. That's in contrast to left-hander Jeff Francis, right-handers Aaron Cook and Manny Corpas, shortstop Troy Tulowitzki and outfielder Brad Hawpe, who signed long-term deals that while providing financial security and a chance to stay in Colorado, likely are less than what would be available on the open market.

Given the situation, the Rockies would be wise to consider trading both Holliday and Atkins in the off-season. Ian Stewart has shown he can handle third base. And if nothing else, Ryan Spilborghs and Seth Smith could become a left-field platoon.

It would allow the Rockies to get the focus back to what it takes to win, erase lingering questions about what's up with Holliday and Atkins. And in return for Holliday and Atkins they could expect the quality arms that could fill voids in their pitching staff.

With Atkins playing first base during the second half of the season, the market for trade possibilities will be expanded for the Rockies. Teams that figure to have interest in Atkins to play either first or third include the Angels, Twins, Red Sox, Yankees and the Phillies, Angels, Tampa Bay, Yankees and Red Sox figure to be most interested teams in Holliday. Dodgers have an interest in Atkins and if they fail to retain Manny Ramirez, they could inquire about Holliday, but Rockies would be careful about dealing either to an NL West team.

Not only could the Rockies gain quality players in trading Atkins and Holliday but it also could give them more than $22 million to use if the right free agent is available. Holliday is guaranteed $13.5 million in 2009 and with arbitration leverage, Atkins figures to command at least $9 million.

DODGERS 7, ROCKIES 2: Jeff Francis lost for the third time in eight career decisions against the Dodgers Friday, allowing three runs in six innings. RHP Manny Corpas was the victim of a three-run James Loney double in the ninth. Matt Holliday hit his 25th home run of the season in the first, and Troy Tulowitzki doubled and scored on a Clint Barmes singled in the second. The Rockies have lost six in a row, their longest losing streak since they dropped eight straight June 22-30.