On paper, Colorado Rockies manager Jim Tracy is in the final year of his contract, but progress towards a long-term extension began with a handshake. The Rockies and Tracy announced an official agreement on what both parties are calling an ‘indefinite’ contract extension. Citing his leadership skills and calling him a ‘difference-maker’ in the clubhouse. Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd says a handshake is sufficient enough for now to serve as a commitment to Tracy as the team’s manager through 2013, and perhaps beyond. Tracy was the National League’s Manager of the Year in 2009 after taking over the Rockies in late May and guiding them to a 74-42 record and a playoff appearance. But the Rockies are just 156-168 in two years since, including a disappointing 73-89 last season.