Quote:
Originally Posted by duncan_idaho
With his arm and range, I'm not done with Witt Jr. at SS. His greatest potential impact/upside are definitely there. I'd like to see what he could do with a better emphasis on fundamentals and consistency.
Which is what even big league players need at a position. It's muscle memory and instinct and habit you need to be your best at a position.
I'd like to see them just tell Witt he's their SS in 2023 and roll with it and see if it helps with those things. It generally does, especially if reinforced by training and practice and coaching.
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Is next year a continued rebuilding year? If so, I don't mind this strategy as long as there is a manager in place who will emphasize defense and be able to coach him up. Melendez certainly will improve in the outfield as well with more time. If there is not a major overhaul of the bullpen, further progression by a few starters, and Brady Singer having a dominate full season rather than just the 2nd half, rebuilding and development is certainly appropriate.
Now, if we think the team next year could actually be competitive and strive for the playoffs, then I'm not so sure. Lopez seems like the better shortstop currently over BWJ. I have nothing to back this up on other than my untrained eye and the fact when he had a full season there, there was discussion he was Gold Glove worthy and perhaps one of the better defensive players in baseball. So, why would the Royals not play the best shortstop on the team at that position if we want to win now?