SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (AP) — Troy Tulowitzki grew up idolizing Derek Jeter. It’s the reason he wears No. 2.

Now Tulowitzki hears daily chatter about possibly taking over for the retiring Jeter at shortstop in New York.

Tulowitzki says it’s an “honor” to be mentioned as Jeter’s possible replacement. But that doesn’t mean the three-time All-Star shortstop wants to leave Denver.

It’s just that he knows after four straight years out of the playoffs, after all the injuries that have sidelined him, this season could determine his future.

The 29-year-old Tulowitzki still has seven years left on a $157.5 million contract that runs through the 2020 season, a figure that will weigh on the Rockies if they don’t contend soon.