only World Series, where the Rockies fell in four games to the Boston Red Sox. In , Atkins spent much of the season playing first base in the absence of injured teammate Todd Helton, marking a defensive transition to "a more natural position for him." Prior to the start of the 2009 season, Atkins accepted a one-year $7 million contract from the Rockies. He struggled, hitting .226 with nine home runs, and 48 RBIs. With the emergence of Ian Stewart, Atkins became less of a priority in the Rockies long-term plans and was non-tendered on December 12, 2009, officially making him a free agent. Baltimore Orioles Atkins agreed to a one-year, $4 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles for 2010. On June 27, the Orioles designated Atkins for assignment. On July 6, he was released. Pittsburgh Pirates Atkins agreed to a minor league deal with the Pirates on December 23, 2010. In March 2011, Atkins was released. Awards and honors 2005 Topps Major League Rookie All-Star Team; 3B National League Rookie of the Month (June 2005) References External links 1979 births Living people Sportspeople from Orange, California Colorado Rockies players Baltimore Orioles players Baseball players from California Major League Baseball third basemen UCLA Bruins baseball players Cotuit Kettleers players Sportspeople from Irvine, California Portland Rockies players Salem Avalanche players Carolina Mudcats players Colorado Springs Sky Sox players