Quote:
Originally Posted by Sea Ray
I fail to see why Norris Hopper is not being given a chance to win the CF job. He fits more of what the Reds need, a leadoff hitter and a RH stick.
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Hopper is marginally better than Patterson offensively, but isn't even remotely close to Patterson defensively. Therefore, while he is a true leadoff hitter, what Hopper brings to the table offensively is lost due to his lack of defense.
It's a classic tradeoff.
IMO, I prefer the brand of defense Patterson brings to the table rather than Hopper, and I can stomach Patterson's lack of offense, since over a full season I see Hopper's offensive numbers going ridiculously South due to his low low low SLG, and his AVG driven OBP. Teams are already taking away his bunt hits and have made adjustments to negate him beating out IF hits, so unless he fixes his LOFT problem, he will continue to be a 1 trick pony.
Yes, the Reds need a RH stick. Unfortunately Norris Hopper isn't the answer to that question.