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After spending nine long seasons in the minor leagues, Miami Marlins‘ third baseman Ed Lucas was called up in the middle of the year after injuries to the Marlins’ infielders took place. Lucas played every infield position this season, and spent some time in the outfield as well through the 58 games he has played with the team. Although his numbers have not been there, could Lucas return to the Marlins as a platoon option at third base?
Lucas has split time with Placido Polanco at third base recently, and it makes you wonder if Lucas can become either the full-time starter or play as a platoon with Polanco, or possibly Greg Dobbs, next season. Lucas would be a completely cheaper option than someone else on the free agent market. He is only signed to a one-year minor league contract, and even if the Marlins keep him up, he can definitely be re-signed at a cheap price. His counterpart, Polanco, signed with the Marlins in the offseason for one-year, $2.75 million. Both players are dispensable.
At 31 years old, possible injuries do come into play if the Marlins were seeking to keep Lucas at third base. This season, he is batting .250/.305/.334 with four home runs and 25 RBI. Lucas spent most of his prime years in the minors, and if the Marlins are really looking to save some money this offseason, keeping Lucas and bringing another veteran on a minor league contract may be the answer for the organization.
Ryan Gaydos is a MLB columnist for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter, “like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google.
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