What a difference a year makes. On record pace, Logan Morrison is making the Rays front office look like geniuses.
On February 3, 2017, General Manager Erik Neander put pen-to-paper with Logan Morrison on a one-year $2.5M deal. At the time of the signing many questioned the move – was Morrison the best option?
That answer seems obvious, now.
On Saturday afternoon, the first baseman took over the team-lead in home runs by hitting his seventh of the year. His three RBI’s brought him within one (18) of team-leader Steven Souza Jr. In 29 games this season, he’s reached the 3-RBI mark on three separate occasions. It took him 107 games to reach that milestone last season.
Looking Back
In 2011, as a member of the Florida Marlins, Morrison slugged a career-high 23 round-trippers. His seventh home run that year did not come until May 31. He’s on pace to hit 34 home runs this season.
When asked if he was happy with his early season success, Morrison talked about this being the beginning.
“Yeah, but it’s just a start. It’s not what you’ve done, it’s what you are going to do. Get ready to go get them tomorrow and hope to make a positive influence on the game tomorrow at the plate.”
One year ago today, his .094 batting average through 20 games played had many calling for change. Especially since the team also had Steve Pearce as an option at first base. Perhaps the uncertainty in his role contributed to his struggles. There was none of that as the season started this year.
When the Rays designated Nick Franklin for assignment, it became clear that Brad Miller was not going to eat into any of Morrison’s playing time at first, the team had committed to Miller as a second baseman.
Whether it’s the fact that he knows his role or is just more comfortable in his second year with the club, the fact remains, the Rays front office has to be pleased with the early return on their investment.
