The Numbers on Nady

[Valadius]

Xavier Clifford Nady



Born: 11/14/78
Birthplace: Carmel, CA
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 205
Bats: Right
Throws: Right

(Take that photo for the roster thread, Edgy)

Xavier Nady never quite became the full-time outfielder that many scouts envisioned. When Phil Nevin was dealt to the Rangers last season, he was given an opportunity at first base. But he was unimpressive, hitting only two second-half homers. Although he hit .261 with 13 dingers in 326 at-bats on the year, most of his work came against lefties (.323 AVG, .452 SLG). He continued to be stifled by right-handers (.223 AVG, 45 K, 9 BB). Nady recently turned 27, and he is going to an organization that offers little opportunity for an everyday spot. Unless there are more moves on the horizon, it's logical to assume Nady in a platoon with 25-year-old Mike Jacobs at first base. As it stands, Nady's fantasy value remains limited on the Mets.

Funny how his middle name is Clifford. Looks like he works well against lefties. Nady is also one of 19 players to jump straight from the draft to the majors, singling in his first at-bat back in 2000. His career slugging percentage of .729 is the highest in Pac-10 history.

[smg58]

He's definitely a useful righty bat, capable of spelling Jacobs (assuming he plays first) or Floyd. I don't expect him to be needed at third, but he'd prevent a disaster there if we're faced with an emergency. I think the last time he played center was against the Mets, when he turned at least one flyball into a triple and then Giles played center against lefties the rest of the year. If somebody asks for Diaz in a deal, the Mets would have needed to find somebody like Nady to replace him, so he definitely helps a lot in terms of flexibility. On the flipside, I don't see him as a regular on a good team, and while the money may help I still think this was a better deal for San Diego.