08-11-2024, 01:13 PM
It's not just about the figuring out the everyday outfield. I think Friedl is about as important a player to this team is there is, so he's the CF until you get a better athlete that can improve on his defense. His effort really sets a tone when he's healthy.
Otherwise, I think Steer, despite his incredible work ethic is probably better suited to the infield, probably at first. The rest of the guys like Fraley and Benson are very platoon-sh. Plenty valuable, and Fraley is worlds better than Benson at the plate, but still the same outcome: lack of a RH power bat.
The real problem is the lack of pop in the middle of the lineup. We have a lot of players that are good at getting on base, but we lack a legit run producing hammer. Elly could be that guy, but he isn't quite there yet. Candy has never been that guy and Steer likely won't be, either. Outside of EDLC, you've got a lot of guys that are going to hit 20-25 bombs and get 90 RBIS, but no real 40-110 threats.
They also have a ton of infield talent. This means the logical place to add the bat is RF or LF. He doesn't have to hit 300 or be an all-world fielder. He could even be a DH if necessary. Either way, that's the way forward if this team wants to get serious. Teoscar Hernandez was a prime opportunity, but they missed it. Hopefully they learn their lesson this winter.
Otherwise, I think Steer, despite his incredible work ethic is probably better suited to the infield, probably at first. The rest of the guys like Fraley and Benson are very platoon-sh. Plenty valuable, and Fraley is worlds better than Benson at the plate, but still the same outcome: lack of a RH power bat.
The real problem is the lack of pop in the middle of the lineup. We have a lot of players that are good at getting on base, but we lack a legit run producing hammer. Elly could be that guy, but he isn't quite there yet. Candy has never been that guy and Steer likely won't be, either. Outside of EDLC, you've got a lot of guys that are going to hit 20-25 bombs and get 90 RBIS, but no real 40-110 threats.
They also have a ton of infield talent. This means the logical place to add the bat is RF or LF. He doesn't have to hit 300 or be an all-world fielder. He could even be a DH if necessary. Either way, that's the way forward if this team wants to get serious. Teoscar Hernandez was a prime opportunity, but they missed it. Hopefully they learn their lesson this winter.
