The American League Central Division has two natural right fielders among the five starters. The other three moved to the position from center field or first base.
No. 1 - Torii Hunter, Detroit Tigers
The Tigers signed the veteran in the offseason to a big contract. The former Twins All-Star and Gold Glove winner is still playing a pretty high level, despite his age. He remains an outstanding athlete with good offensive and defensive skills. He made a successful transition from center field to right field over the last year and a half or so with the Los Angeles Angels. He may have lost a step, but has found a way to compensate.
No. 2 - Alex Rios, Chicago White Sox
The White Sox claimed him off waivers a few years ago from the Toronto Blue Jays and tried moving him to center field. He really struggled, but has regained his form since moving back to right. There are few players that possess his size, speed and overall tools. He has tremendous skills, but is not consistent and goes through streaks.
No. 3 - Jeff Francouer, Kansas City Royals
The Royals traded its top prospect in the offseason, so it is pretty clear that Francouer is the team's right fielder for the time being. He is a big right fielder with a very strong arm. His ability to cut down a running game is his best asset. He can hit for power, but strikes out too much and lacks patience at the plate. He is a streaky hitter that can hit his way into the middle of the order or the bottom.
No. 4 - Chris Parmelee, Minnesota Twins
The Twins appear content on letting Parmelee sink or swim as a major leaguer in right field. He tore apart triple-A pitching as a first baseman last season. He has been a streaky hitter in the majors over the last season-plus. He has the skills to be a very good run-producer in the middle of the Twins order, but needs to prove he can do it at the major league level.
No. 5 - Drew Stubbs, Cleveland Indians
The other new starter in the Indians outfield, Stubbs was acquired in an offseason trade from the Cincinnati Reds. The Indians hope he can have the same success as Hunter after moving from center field to right. He has impressive size and speed. He finished last season in the top 10 in the National League in stolen bases, despite not being a regular starter. He is a smooth defensive outfielder that can cover a lot of ground. He lacks offensive consistency and may be best suited to play a fourth outfield role.
Comments