43.11 Checking the Locks: Center Field

[crobillard]

This is a series where I will evaluate the options in each position leading into Spring Training. This is the seventh of eleven parts. I will be taking a look into the center field position in this post.

Sure fire locks: Rocky Allen
Trying to get in the door: Bill Morley, Freddy Ayala

Acquired from Jacksonville last season, Allen was an exciting addition in the outfield. He's not the Rocky Allen that he was when he first came into the league, but Allen still has the defensive chops and he should be able to do enough at the plate to hold down the position. Last season he had a .248/.318/.397 line with 32 doubles, three triples and 12 homeruns. He also tacked on 33 steals for a 1.4 WAR. Certainly productive, hopefully he will be able to improve on this production after getting the fat extension he received last season. If not, we have another year next season of Rocky before we send him away.

Morley might be the Allen replacement eventually. An 11 rated centerfielder, Morley is a defensive specialist that might hit sometimes if you're lucky. He's nothing amazing, but I'm looking forward to seeing him do more. There's a chance we could see him called up this season if he performs well enough in AAA or if the alternative bench options just really suck.

A rule 5 pick this year from Charlotte, Ayala is another strong defensive option that can play all three outfield positions and if he makes the team he will immediately insert himself as the team's best defensive option. He should be able to steal a handful of bases too. AA is the highest league he's played in though, so his performance in spring training will weigh heavily on the decision on whether to call him up.