I sure it isn't just me but things in Jay land have been pretty depressing lately. One of the things that's been very noticeable about the team is that we've changed from a very good defensive team to a rather average defensive team. With Rolen changed out for E5 and an outfield of 3 guys that would be better off as DHes we aren't the same defensive team we were a year ago. Then, on the far too many days that Millar plays first, we have another defensive hole.
Anyway, I guess before, even when we lost, I told myself 'well at least I'd get to watch good defense'. Now we get to watch the team lose because of poor defense. The team didn't make the playoffs with the great defense, but defense is fun to watch.
It will likely improve. Encarnacion does make some good plays and he has a strong arm. He needs help on his footwork. Maybe during spring training he they'll be able to work with him on it. And I do imagine something will be done with the outfield in the offseason. I'd like them to find a center fielder with good range and move Vernon over to right. Vernon might not have the prototype RF arm but then neither does Snider. And I'm tired of watching balls fall at Vernon's feet. Add in that we really don't have a real backup in CF at the moment and that playing CF every day has to wear on a 31 year old, the move might even help him out offensively. Or at least I could dream it would.
Today's line up:
Chavez in, Snider 8th. One of the several things I don't understand is Snider has to hit 9th with Barajas in the lineup but lower with Chavez in. Barajas isn't hitting a lick either. And why you would want Bautista ahead of Snider against a RHP. Bautista's best work strategy is not to swing and hope the pitcher gets to 4 balls before 3 strikes.
Today's post title comes from Kris Kristofferson's Sunday Morning Coming Down.