In our daily Wake-Up Call, we get you ready for the day with a complete look at all things Pittsburgh Pirates.
Don’t let the headline fool you, I’m not here to get into why I won’t make the Pirates roster out of spring training. There are plenty of reasons why that wouldn’t happen including, and not limited to, the fact that I have less than stellar bat speed and an arm that is just not suited for the big leagues.
The “José” I am referring to is Pirates infielder/outfielder José Osuna. Many questions surround the 25-year-old and his future with the Pirates. Those questions have been on the minds of many since the end of last season, but have been asked more as of late.
The arrival of Corey Dickerson gives the Pirates their starting left fielder and while Osuna was never a candidate to start in left, the former Rays’ outfielder takes up a roster spot that Osuna could have had. It also puts Adam Frazier back in his super utility role, taking up yet another bench spot, and allows Bryce Brentz to be the front runner for the fourth outfield spot.
So, what happens to Osuna if bench spots are taken up by guys such as Sean Rodriguez, Elias Diaz, David Freese, Frazier and Brentz?
Well, maybe those five won’t be the ones making the team out of spring training. Not if Osuna has anything to say about it.
Osuna sure is giving the Pirates something to think about early on in spring training. He is 5 for 14 (.357) with one home run and three RBIs through six spring training games.
His offense will definitely keep him in the mix for a roster spot, but I think the chances of him making the team out of spring training seem unlikely. Yes, offensively he does have a lot of potential, despite hitting only .233 in a bench role last season.
But the key factor with Osuna is finding a spot for him. There are three options of where he could play: outfield, first base and third base, a relatively new position for him.
Osuna isn’t the best outfielder, which is why Brent could likely be a better bench option as a fourth outfielder. Freese will more than likely be Colin Moran’s backup at third base and could even back up Josh Bell at first along with Sean Rodriguez, one of two super utility men with Frazier.
Osuna is definitely a talented player and could very well help the Pirates at some point this season because, let’s face it, injuries are inevitable and having guys who can provide depth in the minor leagues is crucial.
I know it is early in spring training and anything could happen. Osuna could surprise people even more and earn an opportunity and, again, injuries could also have an impact. But I don’t see there being room for young Osuna heading into Opening Day.
Baseball talk on the web
- The Philadelphia Phillies have considered signing two of the pitchers in a group of Jake Arrieta, Lance Lynn and Alex Cobb while the Chicago White Sox have Mike Moustakas and Carlos Gonzalez on their radar.
- Eric Hosmer is bringing a new feel to the San Diego Padres.
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