Breaking Down the San Diego Padres Outfield Position Battles
By Ben Fadden
Right Field
1. Hunter Renfroe
Hunter Renfroe was drafted by the San Diego Padres out of Mississippi State in the first round of the 2013 draft with the expectation of producing big power numbers in the middle of the lineup, and so far he has done that for the most part.
The last two seasons he has hit 26 home runs with at least 58 RBI’s, in addition to at least 20 doubles.
The big problem with Renfroe has been the strikeout numbers, but he seems to have squashed that problem, as he struck out 30 less times than he did two years ago, which is encouraging for Padres fans.
He is projected to hit 24 home runs with 65 RBI’s and an OPS of .778.
I believe he will be starting in right field come March 28 if he continues to not strikeout and continues to work on his defense along with his throwing accuracy.
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2. Franmil Reyes
Franmil Reyes had a huge second half last year, hitting .315 with 10 home runs and an OPS through the roof at .920 over the final months of the season.
Reyes forced Andy Green to bring up up from Triple-A El Paso after he hit 14 home runs which led all of professional baseball at the time.
He came up at the right time because Wil Myers and Hunter Renfroe were on the disabled list, so hegot instant playing time. In 2018, he hit 16 home runs, driving in 31, with a slugging percentage of nearly .500.
Franmil Reyes could start on Opening Day if Renfroe struggles in Spring Training and he is on a roll offensively, or if Myers gets hurt before the season starts, which would put Reyes in left field.
Next. Padres realistic chances of signing Machado. dark
This exceptional depth could allow the San Diego Padres to make some interesting deals this season to help bolster the club, but for now, the Spring Training battles should be very interesting!