Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Come the beginning of the 2014 season, Yonder Alonso will still not be a veteran. As a matter of fact the third season at the MLB level should prove to be a promising one for Alonso and the San Diego Padres if he gets the chance to start. The only reason he might not get the chance to start is if there ends up being a competition between Alonso and young prospect Tommy Medica. Medica is doing nothing quietly of late and continues to make noise.
During his 19 games at the MLB level late in the season Medica was good for a .290 batting average, 3 home runs and 10 RBI. That pace speaks for itself but it could have just been a hot streak right? Well his Arizona Fall League suggests it is a pattern. Stats like a .296 batting average with 20 home runs and 65 RBI over only 81 games are nothing to sneeze at. This kid is good and looks to be the kind that will hit well at the MLB level somewhat naturally.
Considering the performance he put on at the end of the Padres’ 2013 season, I would be shocked if Medica didn’t get a very long look during 2014 Padres Spring Training. His usual position is first base which is the same as Alonso’s. I don’t know what other options the Padres can come up with but if it comes down to Alonso or Medica, don’t be surprised if Medica is not the one saddled with a non-starting job.
David Miller is a Senior Writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @davidmillerrant, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google
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