15 Key Pirates Position Players for 2015: #13 Tony Sanchez

 

2014 Statistics

80 AB/.267 BA/.300 OBP/.360 SLG/2 HR

2015 ZiPS Projections

.223 BA/.291 OBP/.361 SLG/.292 wOBA

Why the Ranking?

This ranking is more about the position than the actual player.  I guess if you are not a fan of Sanchez, or are concerned about his throwing yips, you can insert your favorite #3 catcher into this spot.  As I explained earlier while discussing Elias Diaz in the Jose Tabata article, I feel as though it is a certainly that either or both of Chris Stewart and Francisco Cervelli will spend time on the disabled list this year.  With the players' injury histories and the grind that is the catcher position, you cannot expect anything less.

Now let's talk about Sanchez a little more specifically.  When he was drafted the general concensus was that if Sanchez could hit he would be a solid regular.  Some argued that his defense was already major league ready.  Six years later it is his defense that is now holding him back for the most part; to the point where Sanchez will have some playing time at first base this spring training.  And without many righthanded options behind Cory Hart at first, Sanchez may have a few starts there during the regular season. 

This is a very important year for Tony Sanchez.  He turns 27 this May and some would have to think he does not have a semi-breakout year, he never will, and it will time for the Pirates.  Some may argue that they already have done so.  Between the prospects coming up in the system and the options currently on the MLB roster Sanchez could soon find himself left out.