Originally Posted by
TRF
So take away the two total games in LF played by Ludwick and Frazier, we see a... situation in LF. Heisey, IMO has been given all the rope he has needed and has flat proven himself to be a very competent 4th OF. Good power off the bench, plays all three positions. Solid guy to have. While Ludwick MAY come back this year, it seems doubtful he's going to contribute much. And honestly, he was never a sure thing anyway, a very up and down career, had a decent year last season, but prior to that you have to go back to 2009. He turns 35 in July.
I wouldn't bet the ranch on him, this ain't 1998.
So what is the solution? 3 guys have been manning LF this season other than the aforementioned injured players: Robinson, Paul and Lutz.
Xavier Paul is hitting the best. He probably makes the lineup a little LH heavy for Dusty's taste though. He gets on base, but has little power. seems like he'd fit in the 2 hole, but that would be 3 LH hitters in a row... GASP!
Next up, Robinson. Late bloomer, making his MLB debut with the Reds this year. 28, very fast. I mean very, very fast. Slap hitter seeking his 1st extra base hit. Wily. Taveras. Nothing to see here.
Lastly we see Donald Lutz. A guy with big time power potential, but can't find 1B. His OBP has trended down with each level jump. He's probably right around a .500 SLG guy, meaning if he could post even a .330 OBP, he's more than acceptable in LF. But I have a hunch he's more a .300 OBP guy.
So does that mean FA? wait just one second.
If we do throw age out a bit, I submit Felix Perez. 28, tearing up AAA right now. Has a ton of experience playing in Cuba. Gets on base. .349 OBP last year at AAA, .385 this year. And showing a lot more power. .317 .385 .518 .903 in 156 PA's this year. I'm not suggesting sign him to a six year deal, just that maybe he's a solution. Now, again, he's another LH bat, giving the Reds 4. just like Xavier Paul does, but his power is better.
Just a thought, as no one seems to be looking at him.