WHIV 2045.4- Checking The Locks: Infield

[recte44]

WHIV 2045.4- Checking The Locks: Infield

Sure Fire Locks (3):
Jimmy Starks, Jr. (S)
David Godwin (S)
Stewart Turton (R)

These three are certainly going to be a big part of the Hustlers lineup in 2045. Starks, Jr. was signed to play both first base and left field, and he'll get plenty of playing time between those positions. Godwin is the strong side of a third base platoon with the short side yet to be determined. Then there's Turton, who is developing into a building block piece for the franchise.

Near Locks (3):
Carlos Fernandez (L)
Jose Montano (R)
Kinfu Logano (L)

The Hustlers desperately want Fernandez to win the starting second base job this spring. If he does, the out of options Montano would likely be his platoon mate. Logano is also out of options and given the fact that he hits lefties nearly as well as righties and plays multiple positions, he has an inside track at a roster spot. He could actually end up being the short end of the third base platoon, an oddity with a LH batter starting exclusively against LH pitchers.

Trying To Break In (2):
Henry Curtis (R)
Freddy Rijo (R)

If only there were unlimited roster spots, both Curtis and Rijo would have a spot on the club. Since they both have options, they are both likely to begin the year with Milwaukee (AAA). Both would figure to be short side platoon players at second base and third base, respectively, if they somehow manage to make the big league squad.

Breaking In The Back Door (3)
Raul Alilea (R)
Gianni Francolini (L)
Juan Dominguez (S)

Both Alilea and Francolini cleared waivers and accepted assignment to the minor leagues. Each also has a case to make the big league roster, and they'll get a real opportunity to do so. The Hustlers continue to be intrigued by the Italian first baseman and what he could do with a full season of BBA at-bats. Maybe we'll find out. Alilea is a fan and organization favorite. He's not real happy with the Hustlers right now, and can you blame him? Dominguez is a classic Quad-A player, whose ultimate calling may be in the UMEBA.