Alberto Callaspo Drawing Interest
It was revealed this morning in the Arizona Republic that one of the Diamondbacks' most asked-about players recently has been infielder Alberto Callaspo. Callaspo is set to back up at second, short, and third this year for the big club. Josh Byrnes stole him a year ago for a mere Jason Bulger.
Callaspo is notoriously hard to strike out - he whiffed in only 6% of his ABs in Triple A last year en route to a .337 average. His Major League equivalent came to .280/.337/.395 in 2006, so yes, he could start for many teams. Baseball America doesn't go in-depth about his defense, saying just that he can "play anywhere on the field." They liked him enough to rate him the 82nd best prospect in the game and fourth best D'Back.
A quick aside to take a fantasy point of view - without power or stolen bases, Callaspo's value will be limited to his batting average and runs scored. Those in keeper leagues can take note. He'll probably get those runs as someone's #2 hitter one day.
Callaspo was careful when asked if he'd welcome a trade to become a full-timer. The Diamondbacks will probably make every effort to keep him; his development may make Orlando Hudson expendable.
that is one ridiculous year he had at AAA for a 2B
Posted by: kevmill21 | March 04, 2007 at 12:50 PM
he was the guy i mentioned as one of my deeper sleepers. He's a F. Sanchez type.
Posted by: Chase035 | March 04, 2007 at 12:56 PM
The Blue Jays need him bad. Royce Clayton? Ha. He would easily be the best option for the Jays long term, I wonder how much would be needed to get him, since he is expendable. If its Hudson they want to get rid of, I hope the Jays would try and get him too
Posted by: Guitar Hero | March 04, 2007 at 01:48 PM
This is a tough one for the D-Backs. Callaspo is the cheaper solution at 2B and we are definitely on a budget, however O-Dog is a fan favorite and we are in desperate need of some identity with the fans.
I think they both play for the D-Backs this year and a decision is made after the season .
Posted by: tmar | March 04, 2007 at 02:49 PM
Then what about Hairston? He can't play 2nd but then doesn't that mean not much room for him?
Posted by: Guitar Hero | March 04, 2007 at 03:26 PM
hell i wish the braves would make a run after callaspo, hed fell the second base position well, and the braves dont see to care about speed as much as they do getting on base concerning the lead off spot, and that seems to be callapso's best attribute on offense
Posted by: bravesbeast | March 04, 2007 at 05:12 PM
Hairston is a left fielder and will likely make the roster as he is out of options. His fielding is questionable but the guy can flat out rake. He'll likely end up being traded during or after the season, unless we somehow unload E Byrnes.
As far as Callaspo goes, either he or Hudson will likely end up somewhere else when we trade for more pitching, but I believe that will be after the 2007 season.
Posted by: tmar | March 04, 2007 at 06:38 PM
your right imar. From what I understand, the D=backs outfield only becomes crowded after this year, for now Callaspo can be a 4th OF. But then he for sure will be bumped out.
Posted by: Guitar Hero | March 05, 2007 at 12:52 AM
I think you mixed the names up. For now Hairston will be the 4th OF (unless Krynzel keep playing like he has in spring training).
Posted by: tmar | March 05, 2007 at 08:34 PM