There's another intriguing name floating about on the non-tender list, who would be a great idea if the Pirates were actually risk takers. No, I'm not talking about the wickedly pedestrian Jerome Williams and Joel Piniero. I am talking about ex-phenom Rick Ankiel, who was non-tendered by St. Louis.
"Hey," you say, "isn't that the pitcher who fell apart in St. Louis?"
Yes, that's the one. However, he is also a guy who spent last season in A+ and AA ball and hit .259 with 21 homers and 75 RBI. Yes, all you naysayers will remind me that a 24 year old is considered old for AA, let alone a 26 year old like Ankiel. However, I think that is at least partially cancelled out by the fact that it was his first full season as a hitter in pro ball. Those are very good numbers for the first time around at any level, especially from a guy who was expected to do nothing.
I know his continuing that success and progressing is far from guaranteed, but I don't think adding him to a roster would require much of an investment, and if he did succeed it would be quite the steal.
But that will never happen, because Rick Ankiel is no Trot Nixon.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
Now thats versatility. There are words that Rick Ankiel is just saying he is an outfielder, while remaining a pitching prospect. And he is an alright outfielder in the minors.
That is versatility. He could potentially solve one of our problems. Sign him to a minor league contract in the least.
Post a Comment