Role Call!
It’s no secret that the Tampa Bay Rays like versatility. Players are regularly called upon to fill multiple roles with the team. In years past we saw guys like Ben Zobrist, Elliot Johnson, and Logan Forsythe in these roles. The current roster provides us with players like Nick Franklin and Brad Miller filling the role.
Manager Kevin Cash has claimed that Brad Miller will be given every opportunity to play second base on a regular basis. Miller had 30 HR and 81 RBI last season. That home run total would have been fourth among all second basemen.
Given his inexperience at the position, you may think moving Miller to second is a bad decision. Regardless of your opinion, we know that the Rays like their fielders to be versatile.
It’s certainly reasonable to think that Miller should remain the team’s primary first baseman. Especially if you buy into Nick Franklin’s breakout season. A role player for the club in 2016, Franklin proved his value in the second half with five home runs and 19 RBI in 132 at-bats.
His 15 stolen bases were a pleasant surprise as well. Entering his age-26 season, there’s reason to believe that the former first-round pick has finally tapped into his potential.
Rays fans applauded the success of Logan Forsythe from 2014-2016. He became a fan-favorite in Tampa Bay. It seemed like Forsythe constantly found himself in the right place at the right time. During his tenure, Forsythe played in 390 games for the club. He compiled 354 hits, a .262 average, 43 home runs, and 146 driven-in.
Even though Forsythe is now a member of the Dodgers, his production may not be lost on the Rays in 2017. It’s a small sample size, but look at the numbers.
2016 Season:
Logan Forsythe: 127 games (511 at-bats) .264 BA – 20 HR – 52 RBI – 76 R
Nick Franklin: 60 games (174 at-bats) .270 BA – 6 HR – 26 RBI – 18 R – 15 SB
Recently, our own Ryan Adams got a close look at Franklin and his development.
Nick Franklin punishing baseballs during BP today in Sarasota. Hit at least 3 over LF fence. #Rays
— Ryan Adams (@ScrumRyanRadio) March 14, 2017
Expect the switch-hitting Franklin to see significant playing time this season. With Franklin out-of-options, and just two weeks left before opening day, I expect him to be on the 25-man roster. If so, in 2017, it’s realistic for Franklin to post 15 home runs and 15 stolen bases.
Don’t be surprised if the Rays use a combination of Franklin and Miller at second base throughout the season. Ultimately, Miller will see some time at first base and Franklin in the outfield.
