Apparently, Joe Torre feels that Xavier Paul is destined for greatness in AAA Albuquerque. I am not exactly thrilled about this recent decision. I know that XP or X-Man as I like to call him has not exactly given the kid everyday playing time prior to Pod or Podsednik, but I think sending him to Albuquerque for AJ Ellis is not exactly a step up offensively. I know that Catcher Brad Ausmus can catch a few games here and there, but bringing in AJ Ellis and taking out an OF option stinks. Here are my reasons:
1. Pod is not really hitting and has seen his average dip from .309-.303 BA./ .167 BA as a Dodger
2. Garrett Anderson is not playing to form offensively: batting .184 with 2 HR, and an OPS of .484
3. Xavier Paul: .231 BA, .595 OPS
My take is that XP, can get the job done which maybe makes you wonder why did we acquire Pod???
One reason could be it is possible for Torre knew more about Furcal's health a week ago. Or maybe, Torre needed a speedster he had with Juan Pierre. I have heard the argument countless times on other blogs that Juan Pierre should not have been traded, but was because of his high salary. I think, it's because the writing is on the wall and that last Saturday that Manny's days are numbered and Ned is looking for the right deal to unload him. If that happens, I think it's Tampa. Torre has a thing against the Yankees. I can talk about this at length later at my Bye Bye Joe Entry in November.
So, Torre can keep calling on the shuttle bus for XP between LA and Albuquerque, but in reality, XP has a lot of potential and just needs playing time. He is not the fielder everyone thought he would be, but he has a lot of upside. Remember when Kemp wasn't perfect?
If the Dodgers don't get on a roll in the next couple of weeks, it would be nice to see him back up seeing what the kid can do!
Go Dodgers!
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