Baseball Chat

[vicocala]

Susie,

And what is the point? Just because he doesn't play doesn't mean he isn't a capable fielder. By him not playing he allows Youk to bat which he wouldn't if Ortiz was playing.

One of the biggest values he brings which isn't discussed nearly enough is the fact that he keeps teams honest in pitching to Manny. You and some writers may not see how much that affects how a game is played, but I can assure you it carries much more of an effect over a season than does one defensive players prowess over an other.

The managers in MLB certainly understand that.

One of the reasons Giambi isn't considered more is because of his poor defense. I think bad defense should be a reason for you not to win it, but not playing defense or playing it sparingly should not.