MAJOR BLOGS - www.majorblogs.net - Las Vegas, Nev. - Colorado Rockies manager Clint Hurdle was there at both the beginning and the culmination of Dexter Fowler's journey to the big leagues.  

"It's fun to watch young players develop, and I watched Dexter's first game with us in the Instructional League a number of years ago," said Hurdle. "I watched him start his switch-hitting in the Instructional League program."

FDexter Fowler (Christopher Hadorn)owler, the 38th ranked prospect in MLN's FAB50, earned a September callup to Colorado after enjoying a watershed season with the Double-A Tulsa Drillers. The 22-year-old hit .335 with nine home runs, 31 doubles, nine triples and 20 stolen bases for the Texas League club.

"But one of the cool things about Dexter, left-handed he hits with a split grip," said Hurdle. "I mean, it's Ty Cobb how many years later? But it's an adjustment  he made because he feels more comfortable with it. It speaks to the kid's awareness of doing things."

Fowler also draws rave reviews for his defensive range in center field. One would think a guy with a 6'4", 175 pound frame would have trouble running without his arms and legs flying all over the place. Not Fowler. He glides to balls in the gaps effortlessly like he's on cross-country skis.

"He's so graceful in the outfield," said Hurdle. "I mean, he'll go get a ball like nobody's business."

Given the Rockies' conservative approach in promoting prospects, Colorado Springs Sky Sox fans will likely get a glimpse of Fowler this spring in the Pacific Coast League.  But don't expect him to stay for long.

"I think Dexter is on a mission to get up here," said Hurdle. "The sooner, the better for him."