Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Can an argument be made for Marlon Byrd? Ugh! (Bring back Reedz?)

I have spent a lot of time over the last couple days trying to come up with an argument on why Marlon Byrd would be a good signing for the Cubs.

And, honestly, it just hasn't worked out like I had hoped.

Byrd's offensive numbers are not bad. And, in fact, I believe he is a more clutch hitter than Milton Bradley has been throughout his career. Bradley has more power and walks more, but that was about it.

And looking at fielding statistics for Byrd, I was hoping I would find some impressive numbers as far has his ability to hold base-runners and fielding percentage. Well, those numbers only came back as average to below average.

He isn't much of a base-runner. And, in fact, might be a bit of a menace while on base.

His power stats were bloated last season by his home ballpark.

So...I'm kinda stuck here. Maybe he's a great teammate or something. I don't know.

But if Marlon Byrd is the best center fielder available out there, then I think the Cubs should probably just re-sign Reed Johnson and maybe look to upgrade at a different position.

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