Michael Saunders and Howie Kendrick’s Impact On The Outfield
In previous posts, I have applauded Matt Klentak for bringing in these two veterans. However, Spring Training has been a little of a disappointment. Neither has made much of a first impression as both Michael Saunders and Howie Kendrick are both struggling at the plate so far this spring.
Saunders is hitting .245 with four extra-base hits to his name while Kendrick is sitting at a cool .236. To add injury to insult, Saunders left Friday’s game after taking a C.C. Sabathia pitch to the hand.
As mentioned with Aaron Nola, you can’t base a player’s season off of their Spring Training performance but it is disconcerting. The Phillies front office seems to feel the same way as rumors have surfaced of the Phillies interest in free agent outfielder, Angel Pagan.
It will be interesting to see how this situation plays out as the season progresses. Saunders spot is seemingly safe but it seems as if Kendrick could be the odd man out if he can’t get back on track.