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Who will replace Rodriguez’s versatility?
- Updated: November 29, 2016
PITTSBURGH — The Pirates’ super-sub has moved on to Atlanta.
Sean Rodriguez, Pittsburgh’s super-utility man the past two seasons, reportedly agreed last week to a two-year, $11.5 million contract with the Braves. Rodriguez batted .270 with a career-high .859 OPS and 18 homers in 140 games in 2016. It was a career year for the 31-year-old, who hit .228 with a .666 OPS from 2008-15, and that production may have priced out Pittsburgh.
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The Pirates would have liked to re-sign Rodriguez — either to play the same role or perhaps, as FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal reported Monday night, to enable a trade of second baseman Josh Harrison.
The Bucs will miss Rodriguez’s bat, especially if his improvement proves to be sustainable, but it will be more challenging to replicate his remarkable versatility. Rodriguez was average or better at all seven non-battery positions he played.
How can the Bucs replace Rodriguez? From within, using a highly flexible bench.
Adam Frazier, INF/OF Frazier slashed .301/.356/.411 while spending time at second, third, left and right in 66 games this past season. His glove needs some work, but the Pirates expect the 24-year-old will grow into the role.
Rodriguez’s natural feel for …