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Emerging Backstop Debate


By Mike Silva ~ March 8th, 2009. Filed under: Mike Silva.

Pudge Rodriguez had four hits Saturday night in the WBC. You could bet his agent was on the phone with Omar Minaya sometime around the 7th inning. Is Pudge necessary? It depends on if you believe Ramon Castro is healthy and ready to contribute for a full season.

With Brian Schneider making four million and Castro guaranteed another two it’s going to take a trade to bring Pudge in the fold. The real debate isn’t on the offensive side, but if Rodriguez will bring value in the clubhouse and with the pitching staff.

If Castro and Schneider are healthy I anticipate a combined 15 homers, 70 RBI, and about a .250 average. With Jerry Manuel indicating that he wants a full time catcher, I anticipate those numbers decreasing because of Schneider’s suspect bat being the favorite for playing time.

So far this spring it’s a moot point. Castro is healthy and hitting .400. Although Schneider hasn’t fared well with the stick, some believe he will show his defensive value now that he is adjusted to New York. Pudge is tempting, but it looks like there is no room at the inn.

The best scenario for Rodriguez is a return to Florida. He has a history in Miami and can provide much needed leadership to a young Marlins staff.

Mike Silva is a freelance writer and radio host since March of 2007. This website is his own personal "digest" of New York Baseball He's also hosts NYBD Radio on Blog Talk Radio and 1240 AM WGBB. Check out his sports media commentary at www.sportsmediawatchdog.com. Check out his official website, www.mikesilvamedia.com
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