Time to make the switch for Justin Smoak?

After only 14 games we keep saying the same thing "it's still early." And, while this is true, it's becoming harder and harder for me to rationalize why Chris Colabello is still the main guy at first. Colabello was a great story last year. After years of fighting his way through independent ball and playing for the Twins, he enjoyed a breakout season at age 31 in Toronto. Colabello slashed .321/.367/.520 with 15 HR. But, some of us more pessimistic fans didn't think that it could last. Many will point to his BABIP of .411 as the number that concerns them. For me, it was the fact that he struck out in 26.7% of his plate appearances, while walking in only 6.1%.

But, nonetheless, after spring training was finished Colabello was named the opening day first baseman. But, even though it's early, I think it's time we make the switch. Colabello is currently slashing .077/.143/.077 in his 28 plate appearances. Additionally, his defense has always been shaky at best.

Now, I know what many of you are thinking right now. "How is Justin Smoak any better?" And it's a valid question. Smoak's .083 batting average doesn't exactly scream "upgrade," but I would like to call attention to the fact that he has drawn a walk in 5 of his 18 plate appearances. Most of which, have been as a pinch hitter. This means that while Smoak is only hitting .083 and striking out over 60% of the time, he's also got an OBP of .389.

Obviously, the sample size for both is too small, but it stands to reason that Smoak's numbers could get better if he gets more regular at bats. In addition, it should be mentioned that Smoak is an upgrade defensively, and a switch hitter who could add some more balance to the lineup.

Now none of this is to say that I've given up on Colabello, or that they can't go back to him in a week or two if Smoak can't find a rhythm. But, Smoak has a track record of good defense and marginal power. If he can combine that with his current streak of getting on base then Smoak might be the better option for the time being. Who knows, maybe he could spark the rest of the Jays' stagnant lineup.