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Jankowski, Dickerson to lead young SD OF in ’17
- Updated: December 17, 2016
SAN DIEGO — The Padres’ outfield in 2016 was a revolving door of sorts.
San Diego started a trio of veterans on Opening Day, and all three — Matt Kemp, Melvin Upton Jr. and Jon Jay — were either traded or injured by midseason. In September, the Friars routinely trotted out an all-rookie outfield, offering a glimpse into the club’s future.
The 2017 season figures to bring a bit more outfield stability. There have been trade rumblings surrounding Travis Jankowski and Alex Dickerson, but the Padres appear content to enter the season with their outfield as currently comprised.
From there, it’s a numbers game. Christian Bethancourt is expected to serve as a utility man who can play both corner-outfield spots, leaving the Padres with four places on their roster for five young outfielders.
“There’s five guys we genuinely believe are legitimate Major League outfielders,” Padres manager Andy Green said at the Winter Meetings. “That’s a point we feel really good about. My early expectation in December would be going with four out of five of those guys — and one of those guys ends up in the Minor Leagues.”
So who’s the odd-man out? That decision will be influenced by a number of factors, including potential injuries or roster moves. But here’s an early breakdown of the Padres’ outfield race.
Near certainties
Jankowski Green handed Jankowski an Opening Day job last season, and the 25-year-old speedster quickly proved he belongs in the …
