The Reserve Infielder Who Hits

[Edgy MD]

Turner's performance fell off. That's OK, because the Mets had Satin coming on strong.

Next year, Satin had a job handed to him, and he floundered. BUT THAT'S OK, because Campbell was coming on strong.

The next year, Campbell had a job handed to him, and WHAT THE FUCK?!

One of Whitey Herzog's cruel but smart rules was that you don't want to keep reserves around too long, because if they get comfortable in their role, they lose the drive that gives them the only edge they have. He has a point. And it applies to Neiuwenhuis too. Once they grow a look-at-me beard, move on. Or at least bring in some terrifying competition.

Anyhow, as I type this, Alex Castellanos is sitting on 11 homers in the PCL. Plays outfield, third, and first.

[stevejrogers]

Edgy MD wrote: One of Whitey Herzog's cruel but smart rules was that you don't want to keep reserves around too long, because if they get comfortable in their role, they lose the drive that gives them the only edge they have. He has a point. And it applies to Neiuwenhuis too. Once they grow a look-at-me beard, move on. Or at least bring in some terrifying competition.

Jose Oquendo, granted he outlasted Whitey in Saint Louis, would be an exception to that said rule though.

And Niewenheius was recently designated for assignment by the Angels as well.

This also can apply to non-closers or even the 8th inning setup guy in the pen. You get geared to the transient lifestyle of the position, and/or prove why you aren't considered for an every day role (either as a starter/platoon/closer/etc).

[Edgy MD]

Oh, there are certainly exceptions. Tito Landrum lasted forever, seemingly because Whitey loved to hit him against Orosco.

But the broader point of not falling in love with your blue collar stiffs remains. It's cold, but it's a valid perspective. Joe McEwing's OPS+ scores over his five (five!) years in New York were 55-107-44-61-60.

I'm just trying to put some move-it-or-lose-it pressure on Campbell. Granderson sucks? Good gravy. Catcher and third, that's where we're eating it.

[MFS62]

I forget who originally wrote it, but a sportswriter long ago described reserves who flourished in that role but got worse when playing steadily as "Bench me or trade me" players.

Later