It appears the Boston Red Sox put in a claim on Cristian Guzman, and Chico Harlan wonders what the Nationals should do if the Red Sox claim is not blocked:
For the Nats, this will be a fascinating decision. Guzman is a guy who needs to hit above .300 to have much value — his fielding is average at best, and he never walks — but the switch-hitter is also on a stunning hot streak right now. He spent much of July in a tailspin, unhappy with his role as a No. 6 hitter. Then, on July 21, interim manager Jim Riggleman bumped Guzman back to No. 2. He only got one hit in his first three games in the higher lineup spot, but since July 24, Guzman has hit .467 (28-for-60) with a .717 slugging percentage. He’s gotten multiple hits in 12 of 15 games.
Guzman really turned his offense around over the last three seasons. While he still doesn’t walk, he gets enough hits to be a productive player. His defense, however, has steadily declined. I’m somewhat surprised the Red Sox are going after him. If they get him, they’re stuck with his contract next season, and frankly the shortstop problem continues. He’s also not the kind of player I expect the Red Sox to pursue, someone who’s value lies mostly in his batting average and plays an important defensive position poorly. Yes, he would be an overall improvement over Nick Green, but it’s trading runs scored for runs prevented. At shortstop, I’m not sure that’s a great deal.
Posted by David Pinto at 10:26 am | Trades | Permalink | 2 Comments
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August 10th, 2009 @ 11:14 am
According to the Globe
http://tinyurl.com/guzsox
the Sox decided not to claim Guzman, but hope to work out a deal with the Nats after he clears waivers.
August 10th, 2009 @ 4:59 pm
Agree that Guzman’s not someone the Sox should want at shortstop in 2010, but he’s definitely an upgrade over Green, both offensively *and* defensively, for the remainder of 2009. Not disputing that Guzman’s mediocre with the glove, but Green has been very poor in the field.
I’m guessing that the Sox are hoping (probably against hope) to ride Guzman’s hot bat for the remainder of this season, and will revisit SS for 2010 in the off season.