2039-09: Talons Season Preview Series: First Base

[jiminyhopkins]

Time to look at the first basemen. Not too closely though. We don't want things to get weird.

ML Starter: William Moreland (70/70)

This lefty power hitter already has nearly 450 home runs at age 32 and doesn't look to slow down anytime soon. Although not the most mobile of first basemen, Moreland is a fan favorite and has already helped the club set a record for season ticket sales this year. He split time last season between San Fernando and Nashville and only hit 25 homers, but in 2037 he was worth 4.0 WAR as he recorded a 1.012 OPS while hitting 43 home runs. With salary help from his former team, Moreland is quite the value for the Talons' outlay of only $9 million a year.

ML Backup: Morgan Hollinger (45/55)

A former first round pick for the Talons, Hollinger has been a disappointment thus far in his young career. Given a chance late in the year as the full time first baseman after Deortez was hurt, Hollinger performed dismally. Perhaps it was too much to ask of the 22 year old, but the Talons need him to perform well against lefties in order to spell Moreland.

Minor League Depth: Roberto Fernandez (35/40)

Fernandez might be able to survive a brief callup if needed, but only barely. Any help at this position will have to come from outside the franchise.

Prospect to watch: Juan Mateo (25/75)

This 19 year old has decent ratings development and projects to be a big lefty power bat, just what the Talons love. But he also is decent on the basepaths and has a chance to become a good defender. Might even be ready to go before Moreland's contract is up.