Game Twenty-Two
Another blowout. There’s just not much negative to say.
The one interesting thing is John Jaso’s development and progression. Let’s be clear: John Jaso is not a true talent .455/.606/.727 hitter. I know, I know, that disappoints me too. ZiPS had Jaso projected to be around a league average hitter, which is immensely valuable from the catcher’s position, particularly for a lefty batter. The defensive issues with Jaso have seemingly been overblown. As encouraging as that is, it’s also a bit of a shame, because it makes Dioner Navarro and Michel Hernandez collecting so many plate appearances last season seem wasteful.
The funny thing is how Joe Maddon seems to be explaining the situation to Navarro. Telling him they’re playing the hot hand. Uh, right. More like they’re playing the better hitter. Understandably Maddon isn’t going to tell Navarro he’s been atrocious, and he’s certainly not going to do so in the press. Instead, we’ll be treated to quotes like this:
SunSportsRays
Maddon on Jaso: “We’ve got to give him a chance to really run with this and see where it takes him now, for him and for us.” – DS
I think Navi can read the signs perfectly well, and knows that his big contract makes him most likely out the door.