This spring, Jake Fox has been kicking arse at the plate and taking names. He’s hit an astounding seven homers – with two more on Thursday — during the spring and was a major reason for the Baltimore’s win over Pittsburgh, 13-3.
One would think right now that Fox should be included on the roster coming up north to Baltimore. I would tend to agree; however, what position would he play? First? Outfield? Catcher? Designated Hitter?
Right now, it’s a backup catcher spot. He’s fighting with Craig Tatum – who performed competently last year — for a job.
I don’t know if we are seeing the real Jake Fox – not likely – or just a guy having an amazing Spring Training and getting timely hits off pitchers that will more than likely start their season in the minors.
Whatever is happening, let’s hope he has enough bullets for the regular season.
Let’s hope it’s just more than a hitter just simply having a good month.
Again, it’s only Spring Training…
Then again, Buck Showalter told the media yesterday (quote from the Baltimore Sun) about Fox’s status and possibility of making the team:
Showalter has said repeatedly that he knows Fox can hit, but he wants to see him play better behind the plate to secure a spot on the team.
“I want him to show me what he can do catching. We all know he is capable of doing some good things with the bat. He had a good game behind the plate, a better game behind the plate. That’s really what I was looking at today.”
When asked if it were possible for a guy with seven spring homers not to make the team, Showalter simply said: “Yes.”
Who knows if this is all true, or just plain psycho-babble from Showalter. While Fox can hit, he will have to become a better catcher – especially when it comes to working with young pitchers – so, it’s hard to say if he has the edge over Tatum right now.
