Ahhh, it hoits! What kind of production will the Phillies get from third base this year?
I'm almost certain that David Bell loses the fulltime job by mid-May, if not sooner (what with all his nagging injuries and such). Newly acquired Abraham Nunez will likely get the significant part of the remaining playing time, with Alex Gonzalez getting a game or two here and there.
Bell
AVG: .253
OBP: .306
SLG: .377
HR: 4
R: 34
RBI: 26
SB: 0
Bell's 1.000+ OPS vs. lefties last year will prove to be a mirage, as he will regress to the mean versus both righties and lefties. Unfortunately, that level of play is still completely unacceptable. One of the worst contracts in Phillies history, more for the length of the deal than the money, although that was bad too. I always kind of imagined Bell being like Candy's old-ass dog in Of Mice and Men. And now that Wade's gone, maybe someone can take him out behind the shed and put him out of his metaphorical misery.
Nunez
AVG: .258
OBP: .322
SLG: .351
HR: 3
R: 41
RBI: 33
SB: 4
When you're rolling with the Pittsburgh Pirates' utility infielder castoffs, you know you've got some problems. Add in the fact that the Phillies are paying basically for the six good weeks that Nunez had in 2005 and you've got a really bad situation on your hands. Not to mention a terrible contract. Get used to Nunez, 'cause he's probably your starting third baseman in 2007 as well, and may hold down the position until 2005 draft pick Mike Costanzo is ready, assuming he will be.
The Phillies may well narrowly miss the playoffs again this season. And as with last season, look no further than third base to find the reason.
Who wants a drink? I'm buying...
Poll
Who will get the most starts at third base this year?
This poll is closed
-
26%
David Bell
-
40%
Abraham Nunez
-
13%
Alex Gonzalez
-
6%
Matt Kata
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13%
Other / Ed the Chimp?