THORNTON, Colo. - Colorado Rockies first baseman Todd Helton says he is "very sorry and embarrassed" about his arrest Wednesday morning on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol and careless driving.

Police said a witness called 911 at 2:08 a.m. and reported someone driving a black Ford F-150 truck erratically on Colorado Boulevard in Thornton. Helton pulled into a Conoco gas station and that's where police made the arrest.

“Last evening, I exercised poor judgment and was charged with drinking and driving after driving to a gas station near my house," said Helton. "I am very sorry and embarrassed by my actions. I hold myself to a high standard and take my responsibility as a public figure very seriously. My entire career I have worked to set a positive example for my family and in our community and I fell far short of this standard."

Helton is asking for forgiveness.

"I sincerely ask my family, the Colorado Rockies Organization, Major League Baseball and the community to accept my apology," Helton said. "I make no excuses and accept full responsibility for my actions. I humbly ask your forgiveness.” 

"We were extremely disappointed to learn that Todd was arrested this morning," the Rockies said in a statement sent to 7NEWS. "This type of behavior is taken very seriously by our organization. We know that he clearly understands the seriousness of his poor decision, the harm that could have been inflicted on others and the embarrassment his mistake has caused to himself, his family, the Colorado Rockies organization and to Major League Baseball."

"Todd is taking full accountability for his actions with his family, his fans and the organization," the statement said. "Todd clearly understands the severity of the situation."

Helton has played for the Rockies since 1997.

Last year, his season ended in August when he underwent hip surgery to repair a torn labrum.

The Rockies website reported last month that the team was hoping he would return this season and that the team was nudging Helton in that direction.

The website reported that Helton said his goal was to be ready for the start of the regular season.