Changed atmosphere with McCutchen’s joining, mentioning the possibility of a backup shortstop…US media “Bae Ji-hwan must compete”

“Bae Ji-hwan must also compete.”

Bae Ji-hwan showed potential for growth at the end of last season. Bae Ji-hwan, who moved to the United States in 2018, debuted on the big league stage after 5 years. In 10 games, 33 at-bats, 11 hits, 6 RBIs, 5 runs scored, 3 stolen bases, a batting average of 0.333, a slugging percentage of 0.424, and an OPS (on-base percentage + slugging percentage) of 0.829. Although he is a small sample, he left a strong impact and attracted attention.

The local press also praised it. There is a prospect that Bae Ji-hwan will take the starting position in Pittsburgh in the future. It was predicted that Bae Ji-hwan, who showed quick feet and decent defensive skills, would start in the opening game of the 2023 season as the first batter in center field.

However, with the addition of Andrew McCutchen, Bae Ji-hwan’s position is expected to change. McCutchen, 37 years old. Due to his considerable age, the possibility of playing as a designated hitter seems high, but considering his still athleticism, it is evaluated that he is enough to play in the outfield.

The Pittsburgh Post Gazette, a local Pittsburgh magazine, 온라인카지노 delivered the news of McCutchen’s initiation ceremony on the 21st (Korean time) and said, “McCutchin showed good defensive skills as a left fielder. He also has the same sprint speed,” predicting that McCutchen will play outfield defense.

If McCutchen plays left field, Brian Reynolds is likely to play center field. Jack Swinsky is expected to play in right field. Originally, there was a prospect that the outfield would consist of Bae Ji-hwan in center field, Reynolds in left field, and Swinski in right field.

The media said, “Now Bae Ji-hwan has to compete for the starting position,” and “Pittsburgh has no backup shortstop. Bae Ji-hwan will play that role,” and analyzed that Bae Ji-hwan could play as an infielder. Bae Ji-hwan played shortstop since his school days, and was selected as the shortstop when he joined the Pittsburgh Pirates. After he moved to the United States, he played both second baseman and outfielder and boasted decent defensive power in any position.

With the addition of McCutchen, Bae Ji-hwan’s position is expected to change. If Bae Ji-hwan continues his performance last season, he can rise to the starting position. I wonder if Bae Ji-hwan can take root in Pittsburgh.