The survival of major leaguer Bae Ji-hwan (24) as the starting pitcher has emerged as the biggest point to watch for the American Professional Baseball (MLB) Pittsburgh Pirates.
On the 13th (Korean time), MLB.com summarized key elements of note in the 2024 season spring camp for each of the 30 major league clubs.
In Pittsburgh, the competition for the starting second baseman was mentioned. 카지노사이트원
It was predicted that Bae Ji-hwan would compete against Leeover Peguero (23), Nick Gonzalez (24), and Alica Williams (24).
Bae Ji-hwan played in 111 games last season with a batting average of 0.231, 2 home runs, 32 RBI, 54 runs, 24 stolen bases, and OPS (on-base percentage + slugging percentage) of 0.608.
He has played 64 games as a second baseman, making him the most experienced player among his competitors.
Peguero had a batting average of 0.237, 7 home runs, 26 RBI, and an OPS of 0.653 in 59 games.
While Gonzalez had a batting average of 0.209, 2 home runs, 13 RBI, and an OPS of 0.616 in 35 games.
Williams had a batting average of 0.198, 6 RBI, and an OPS of 0.518 in 46 games.
There were no home runs.
In order for Bae Ji-hwan to surpass them and become a steadfast starter, he will need to make use of his strength, which is his speed, and at the same time complement his hitting ability.
Jared Triolo (26), who was Bae Ji-hwan’s strong competitor, was expected to be used as a utility resource rather than a second baseman.
Triolo played in 54 games last year with a batting average of 0.298, 21 RBI, and an OPS of 0.785.
Meanwhile, for the San Diego Padres, where Kim Ha-seong and Ko Woo-seok play, whether or not they will strengthen their player base was chosen as a point to watch.
MLB.com said, “At least one more starting pitcher and one more outfielder are needed,” and added, “If the player base is strengthened, it will be sufficient grounds to classify the team as a postseason contender for the 2024 season.”
For the San Francisco Giants, where Lee Jeong-hoo is located, the key is whether prospect Marco Luciano can properly fill the void left by existing shortstop Brandon Crawford.