Spring training stats don't matter. Except when they do.
Elijah Dukes found that out the hard way.
Dukes has lost the starting right field job to Austin Kearns. While there might be some behind-the-scenes things for it, for now, Manny Acta's basing it entirely on spring training stats.
If that's the basis for the decision, fine. It makes sense.
Kearns hit .279/ .436/ .581 (average/ on-base/ slugging) and Dukes hit .212/ .305/ .327.
But those were over 43 and 60 ABs respectively for Kearns and Dukes. Samples that small shouldn't entirely dictate roster decisions. Acta's a bit of a stathead; he understands this.
So what gives?
A few things, probably.
First, the team probably wants to showcase Kearns a bit. On the last year of his deal, he'd be a tradeable commodity if he lives up to his potential. Yeah, he stunk last year, but he was injured and Lenny Harris was his batting coach.
If he hits up to his career stats, and with his defense, someone might want him -- Atlanta? San Francisco?
Second, Acta realizes that there will be plenty of ABs for everyone. Dukes will play, whether it's filling in for Kearns, or siphoning away ABs from Lastings Milledge.
Also, Dukes had a bunch of nagging leg injuries last season. Perhaps this is Acta's way of keeping him a bit fresh?
With all that, though, it's a decision that stinks.
Dukes is younger, more athletic, and has loads more of potential than Kearns does. The Nats know what they have with Kearns. With Dukes, the sky's the limit.
Plus, Kearns is gone at the end of the season. His contract's up. Dukes, on the other hand, will be with the Nats for the next 4-5 years. Why not give him time to develop now?
Worrisome, too, is the chance that Acta could lose Dukes. He's been a good kid since the trade. Will benching him trigger something or create problems later? All for the chance to showcase Kearns?
It seems like there's not as much of an upside to starting Kearns. It won't be the difference between making or missing the playoffs, but it matters, still.
Chris Needham used to write Capitol Punishment. He's one of three remaining members of the Kearns fanclub, but even he doesn't understand this.
