Hundreds Gather For Rockies Appreciation Rally

DENVER -- Hundreds of people clad in purple and black gathered in downtown Denver Wednesday during a midday rally to celebrate the Colorado Rockies' remarkable trip to the World Series.

They waved white rally towels and cheered their appreciation for the team, who had won 21 of 22 games to win a World Series berth but who had been swept by the Boston Red Sox in the World Series.

"No one is more disappointed that we didn't win the World Series, but we are not disappointed in you," said Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper, looking at the Rockies players that had gathered on stage at Skyline Park.

"This state was made a different state in the months of September and October ... We need to thank them for their determination, their grit, and their awesome run," Gov. Bill Ritter said.

The Rockies seemed somewhat surprised by the large turnout and appeared a little bit embarrassed.

"I didn't know if we expected -- all of us up here -- for this many people to show up. But I tell you what, it sure means a lot. I can only speak for myself, but I don't know if I've ever had more fun playing baseball than I did this year," said pitcher Jeff Francis, who had 17 wins during the regular season and two in the postseason.

The fans who were gathered were challenged to show up to Coors Field next season.

"I can't believe all the people that are here. I wasn't around when we used to sell out every night. But now that I've seen what you guys are capable of, I know what to expect next year. No more half-filled stadiums -- even during the regular season. You all better come like you came in the playoffs, because that was a lot of fun," said MVP candidate Matt Holliday.

"The last month and a half was unbelievable and having all of you to share it with. I think everybody up here is looking forward to spring training. We will see all you guys next year," said third-baseman Garrett Atkins.

Mostly, the Rockies seemed happy about a town that has grown to fully support them.

"As a man who has been embraced by the state of Colorado ... we could not be more humbled by the fact that our ballclub has been able to bring so much joy to so many people on so many different levels," said Rockies manager Clint Hurdle.

"Thank you to so many of you for the unconditional love. Thank you to so many of you for the conditional love that we picked up this season," Hurdle said with a wide grin, referring to the thousands of fans who filled Coors Field after the Rockies started winning games. "And I thank you for the love that we share as we move forward."

"I shared with them the other night that I have never been brought more joy in 33 years of professional ball than these men brought to me this season. We marked a few things off in our 'to do' list and we left a few things on the board to take care of in the future," Hurdle said.

The rally was hosted by the city of Denver and the Downtown Denver partnership.

"Next year, we will have a parade because next year, we are winning the World Series," the mayor said.

"We really just want to build a festive environment," said Sarah McLean with the Downtown Denver Partnership. "And really show the team that we appreciate what they have done for this city and the incredible electricity that they brought to downtown."

"This is truly awesome to be out here representing all of you. It was a special season. All of us grew as a family ... You really have something special with this group of guys. We love it here. We love being in Denver," said outfielder Ryan Spilborghs.

The Denver celebration was held at Skyline Park, at 15th and Arapahoe Streets.

The city says Rockies' fans wanted a way to celebrate, so they answered with a rally.

When told about the rally on Tuesday, some fans had mixed reactions.

"I think it is probably pretty cool that they are going to do it," said Chad McCool, a Denver resident. "I am indebted to the Rockies, I got to write something off my lifetime list."

But some fans thought that a rally was not appropriate.

"The people in Boston are all out celebrating and they should be," said Richard Fantel, a Lakewood resident. "But we didn't win. But with that said, there is part of me that would love to go to a rally and celebrate what they did do. So I am really mixed about it."