Rockies' Helton arrested on DUI charge

The five-time All-Star was arrested about 2:30 a.m. Wednesday in the Denver suburb of Thornton and charged with drunken driving and careless driving.

In a statement released by the Rockies, Helton said he's embarrassed and apologized to his family, the team and the community.

"I hold myself to a high standard and take my responsibility as a public figure very seriously," he said, adding, "I humbly ask your forgiveness."

Helton was arrested after someone called police to report a drunken driver, police said. They say Helton's blood-alcohol content was over the legal limit but they haven't released the number.

Helton is a career .320 hitter. The 39-year-old played only 69 games last year before undergoing hip surgery in August. Afterward, the smooth-fielding first baseman known as much for his glove work as for his big bat considered retiring but decided last month to return for the final season of his contract.

"We were extremely disappointed to learn that Todd was arrested this morning. This type of behavior is taken very seriously by our organization," the Rockies said in a statement. "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 man we have grown to know has strong values that are grounded in his family and hard work. Todd clearly understands the severity of the situation."

Helton is the most accomplished player in Rockies history, collecting 2,420 hits, 354 home runs and 1,345 RBIs over his career.