Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Piazza Measured for Pinstripes?

With the current state of Yankee catching, one intriguing option has surfaced - Mike Piazza.

While his throwing ability is somewhere between Johnny Damon and Jason Giambi, Piazza is a very adept game-caller and has shown an ability to work well with young pitchers.

Many reports have Piazza close to signing a deal with the Cincinnati Reds, though others are stating the Reds want more of a 'catch and throw' guy for the position.

What it comes down to is how long Jorge and Molina will be out. Chad Moeller is obviously not a long-term option, but if either backstop will be back within a couple of weeks there is really no room for Piazza on the roster.

With the play of Alberto Gonzalez up the middle and Morgan Ensberg able to play either corner infield spot I believe Wilson Betemit's days in Pinstripes are close to over (Pink Eye? Couldn't they come up with anything better than that?). Should Jorge and Molina return the question then becomes who gets the last roster spot - Piazza or Shelley Duncan? While Shelley is no Ozzie Smith at any position in the field, any Mets fan will tell you that Piazza at 1B or the outfield is truly not an option. Shelley's versatility and energy make him my choice.

(Hat tip to Sliding Into Home)

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