In this feature, we will highlight some of the position battles going on throughout Spring Training.
Left Field:
Matt Diaz
Stats:
Bats: Right,
Throws: Right
Height: 6' 1",
Weight: 215 lb.
Age: 31
VS
Melky Cabrera
Stats:
Bats: Both,
Throws: Left
Height: 6' 0",
Weight: 200 lb.
Age: 25
So far, neither player has really shined through the first week of training. Both have 11 plate appearances, with Diaz batting .273/.333/.364 while Cabrera is batting .182/.308/.273.
This small sample size is just not enough for manager Bobby Cox to make a decision: "We can't just make a decision based on these early numbers. We got to look at past performance and take age into account as well."
While on paper it looks like Diaz is a greater offensive threat, Cabrera is much younger and looks to be on the rise. His numbers were pretty steady over the past three years, while Diaz has pretty much leveled off and will probably start his decline over the season.
So will the Braves go for experience or youth? We won't know until the first pitch on opening day. However, we will be the first to bring you the decision when it does happen.