Quote:
Originally Posted by Murphy3
Actually, I don't think they carry a 5th OF primarily because they need a backup. In a pinch, I'm sure that they'll be ok with Murphy or Cruz playing CF if needed. I do believe that they feel more than comfortable with the defensive abilities of either or these two guys.
That does not mean that they won't carry a 5th OF. But I don't think they'll carry a 5th OF for the primary purpose of being the backup at CF. There is the chance that they could carry a 5th OF that can play some CF because they are not convinced that Borbon can play every day.
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If Borbon was a veteran in his prime I'd agree with you. But I have to think someone as young as Borbon is going to get spelled fairly regularly, if nothing else to help with his inevitable struggles at the plate.
I really doubt the Rangers want a combo of Murphy/Cruz playing 20+ games in CF next year.
Obviously you could be right, especially with all four outfielders theoretically capable of playing center field, but I still suspect a fifth outfielder that is mainly a pinch runner/backup center fielder is likely to be on the roster come opening day (Crag Gentry maybe).