What Should the Padres Do at Each Position?

Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

CF

Options: Will Venable, Cameron Maybin, Abraham Almonte, Alexi Amarista, Cory Spangenberg

Venable and Maybin were basically the same players statistically in 2014.  The only difference is games played.  They are both very good defensively.  While Venable has more power the difference between these two is not great.  Their great defense (and Maybin’s problems staying on the field) does not compensate for their bad offense.

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After Almonte came over from Seattle, he proved to be an adequate option.  He has good range and is an overall sound defender.  And, unlike Venable and Maybin, Almonte actually hit decently (.265/.305/.378/.682).  Now, those numbers are pretty league average.  But, he’s a better option that Venable or Maybin.

Amarista will only be a CF option if Spangenberg or Barmes take over SS.  Even then, for the same reasons he shouldn’t be the everyday SS apply here.  He is a marvelous and entertaining defender, but a liability at the plate.

Spangenberg because why not.  If he doesn’t prove to be a major league SS, then try him out in CF.  He has the speed to play any position and did play in the outfield a little in the minors.  Solarte would be the beneficiary of Spangenberg playing CF.  Solarte was a better player offensively last year than any of the other CF options.  Frankly, SS is a bigger hole than CF.  If it comes down to Spangenberg playing SS or CF, then he should remain in the infield.

Bud Black should: Start Almonte in CF.  Black should focus on Spangenberg as an infielder unless all of the CF options fail.  Venable and Maybin simply should not play much unless they prove otherwise.