Projected Starter: Jimmy Starks Jr.This is a series that I have stolen from the Jackrabbits, where we will evaluate each position leading into and during the early stages of Spring Training. Only players currently on the 40 man roster will be included in this series as prospects will be looked at in upcoming weeks. This is the seventh of eleven positions that will be posted. In this part, we will take a look at the center field position.
Backup: Jesus Rojas
Trying to find a spot: Terrence Mack
Another easy answer here. Well...Maybe. Jimmy Starks is among the top 10 projected hitters in the BBA, however injury woes could threaten that as Starks has had some issues staying on the field for Omaha since his call up a few years ago. Not only a scratch here or there, but actually missing significant time. Starks is up for free agency after the 2038 season, if he fails to stay healthy this year, the team may do the unthinkable and let him go off to free agency.
Jose Rojas is the backup in center field as the team is expected to move on from Terrence Mack. Rojas seems to have a grasp as the backup for all 3 outfield positions and potentially the infield. This is if, and a big if, Rojas doesn't win the starting shortstop job. If Rojas becomes the starting shortstop, the club may need to dive into free agency or it's minor leagues to find a full time 4th outfielder.
There was discussion of Gustavo Herrera making his debut but that seems to have been tabled for now by the front office. If Rojas goes away with the starting shortstop job, look for the potential of Herrera to be called up as the 4th outfielder for the club.
