I fully concur with those who say Lowell has an amazing glove. But Youkilis isn't half bad either. But since this is less of a roster construction debate let me give you my thoughts on Lowell.
3B is a pretty weak position right now in major league baseball. For what it's worth, there aren't a ton of elite hitters at the spot. Between glove and bat, I don't see that we have much of a debate left: just pay Lowell the money next year and let it ride.
As for stats, I'm not overly optimistic. Sure, he could pull a Joe Crede. But realistically I see something around 800 OPS with hopefully more Gold Glove defense. It's likely that'll be his last season in a Sox uniform and it won't be enough to erase the sting of losing (I can't even say the names without invoking pain) for (5 great games and a fastball).
That said, if this was a roster construction thread, then I would advocate starting Papi at 1B and moving Youkilis back to his natural spot. But how can you discuss 3B without talking about Youks these days?
- Kevin
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