PT TOMORROW: NL West—Is Aybar really the answer in San Diego?

San Diego Padres

When Erick Aybar (SS, SD) was handed the starting shortstop gig at the end of March, he was coming off a decent (if unspectacular) spring—15 hits (2 HR) in 54 at-bats (.278 BA), with 1 stolen base in 2 attempts to go along with a 7/4 K/BB rate. In his very small sample (34 AB) to start the season, the 33-year-old Aybar had 5 hits in 37 AB (.135) with no HR, RBI or SB. Although his current contact (92%) and walk (16%) rates are encouraging, his lack of hard contact (44 HctX) gives cause for concern, especially given the dramatic drop he experienced last year, from 88 (2015) down to 71 (2016). Add in his waning speed—only 3 steals in 8 attempts last year—and the question emerges as to how long he can hold onto a full-time...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Following the free agency departure of Corbin Burnes, will Baltimore add another starter or will internal options such as Trevor Rogers have to step up? Plus, uncertainty in the NYY infield, BOS' closer role in flux, and more.
Dec 30 2024 3:00am
The Royals have already added an infielder and may be looking to add more, which could cut into the playing time of Maikel Garcia. Plus, White Sox rotation sans their ace, and more from around the division.
Dec 26 2024 11:27am
NL West: Holes in the SD OF and rotation; back of rotation options for ARI and SF; and OF questions for LA and COL.
Dec 24 2024 3:20am
With Kyle Tucker out of town, the Astros need another starting outfielder, and Zach Dezenzo could be that replacement.
FREE
Dec 20 2024 9:02am

Tools