Padres Editorial: Ranking the Off-Season Moves Part I

#8

The free agent acquisition of Clint Barmes at one-year,$1.3 million dollars

Clint Barmes‘ value is in his defense at shortstop and his veteran presence. To be honest, I was very surprised that the Padres came knocking on his door. He is not a particular special hitter, nor is he young in the tooth. He is however, strong armed and a solid defensive presence at shortstop.

At 35-years old, Barmes does bring 12 years of Major League service to the squad. He did have some decent years while playing for the Colorado Rockies, hitting 23 home runs in 2009. Yes that was in Colorado and his numbers the last three seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates have been sub par to say the least. He is a great glove at shortstop and teamed with a young starter, would be a perfect combination. It is yet to be seen if Alexi Amarista can fill that role (of young starting shortstop) and start 5 out 7 games during the week.

A lifetime .246 hitter with 86 home runs and 399 runs batted in, Barmes is indeed a durable veteran infielder. He played all four infield positions last year, and committed only 2 errors. A.J. Preller made Barmes one of his first additions, and its comfortable to say he is a lock to make the opening day roster.

I have no problem with Barmes being on the team, provided he is not starting the majority of the time. He is passed his prime, and is better suited to play that of a mentor or player-coach to young players. If Barmes starts three or four games a week, then the team may have a problem and need to address that issue immediately. All in all, not a bad pick up though.