TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

Rays Look For Next Super Utility Player

ADVERTISEMENT

By TONY FABRIZIO

afabrizio@tampatrib.com

Published: March 7, 2009

PORT CHARLOTTE - Ben Zobrist backs up for the Rays at almost every position on the field. But who backs up the back up?

The Rays are trying to develop former second baseman prospect Elliot Johnson into another super utility player, and they're looking at veteran Adam Kennedy, a former Angels and Cardinals starting second baseman, in that role.

And there may be others who'll get a chance. Manager Joe Maddon notes that the Rays are set with young players at practically every starting position and will have to find a place for their prospects.

"I think we should start nurturing that player," he said. "You have these interesting guys coming up. Why pigeon hole them at one spot and say, 'Well, he's the shortstop of the future or the second baseman of the future,' even though you have young starters that you may have for several years.

"The need might arise at a different position than his, but he may be the better guy you like best to come up. So why not give him the opportunity in the minor leagues to find out what he can do?"

Johnson, who turns 25 Monday, made the opening-day roster last year after Zobrist got hurt and made starts at designated hitter, right field, shortstop and second base and appeared in center field. He spent most of the season at Triple-A Durham, where he batted .261 with nine home runs and 50 RBIs.

"He's a live-body guy; he's got a great arm. ... You see him in the outfield how easily he gets after the ball, as well as he's a switch-hitter," Maddon said. "I would have no qualm putting him at any position, athletically speaking."

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT