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| Byron Buxton hit just .209 in 138 major league plate appearances in 2015. |
Assuming, of course, that he plays.
The trade of Aaron Hicks opens center field, and Buxton is presumably the front-runner to claim the job. But he didn't hit in his limited major league duty in 2015, and it's possible the decision makers will opt to give him some Triple A time to start 2016.
I wouldn't. Between his undeniable ceiling and his defensive prowess, I'd rather have him in center field from the get-go in April. The alternatives at this point are Eddie Rosario and Danny Santana. Rosario is better suited for a corner outfield spot, and there is nothing Santana does as an outfielder that Buxton doesn't figure to do better.
Except if Buxton can develop more maturity more quickly in a AAA environment.
ReplyDeleteThe fans all want to see a player with a big reputation yesterday. At times it is a recipe for disaster if it shatters a prospects confidence.
Isn't it better to be placed in an environment where you can be successful when your talent is developing, instead of one with many failures that creates self doubt?