Zack Greinke is an excellent hitter for a pitcher. He is also one misstep away from seeing time on the infield for the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Over the years, Zack Greinke has been an excellent pitcher in the majors. The Arizona Diamondbacks ace has been a five time All Star, won two ERA titles, and was the 2009 AL Cy Young winner. His prowess with the bat has also been noticed, as he has won two Silver Slugger awards.
Should an unfortunate misstep happen amongst the Diamondbacks, Greinke will get a chance to show that he is more than an All Star caliber arm. He was taking ground balls at third on Wednesday, as he is listed as the team’s emergency infielder.
Zack Greinke is taking grounders at third. Torey Lovullo said Greinke is his emergency infielder, and that Greinke said he feels most comfortable at the hot corner. pic.twitter.com/t3XqKIjFwG
— Zach Buchanan (@ZHBuchanan) May 29, 2019
This is not the first time that Greinke has, at the very least, dabbled with the idea of being an infielder. He wanted to change positions when the Royals sent him down to the minors, offering to go to AA and learn how to be an infielder. Greinke is also renowned for his ability to defend the mound, winning five Gold Glove awards and is considered the best bunt defender in the majors.
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Naturally, there is a great deal of difference between defending on the mound and at third base. However, Greinke was a shortstop in high school and considered to have one of the best arms at the position. A former Royals scout felt that he could have succeeded at short, third, or even as a catcher in professional ball.
While it may take an injury or two, as well as some unforeseen circumstances, Greinke may get the chance to prove that scout correct. He may well get his chance at the hot corner, getting a chance to show his defense and contribute to the Diamondbacks success in a new manner.
Likewise, this could be an opportunity for Greinke to join the ranks of the two way player. Jared Walsh, while primarily a first baseman, has made a relief appearance for the Angels. Why not take a look at Greinke at third, putting his bat in the lineup? It may be unlikely, but the potential is there.
The Arizona Diamondbacks consider Zack Greinke to be their emergency infielder. Given his history, that is an impressive option to have.