Paul Goldsmidt’s Struggles Putting Kirk Gibson on the Spot

An under the radar move that has been paying some dividends for the D-Backs is the one-year deal they gave to veteran first baseman Lyle Overbay.

While Paul Goldscmidt was expected to deliver a breakout season, he’s failed to provide much as he’s mired in the midst of an 0-16 slump–including 8 strikeouts–which has lowered his batting average to .185.  Apparently taking notice, manager Kirk Gibson has sat Goldscmidt again today–the second time in the three game set at Miami this weekend.

The current benefactor of Goldscmidt’s struggles is Lyle Overbay who started again today after getting on base five times in Friday’s 5-0 win.  Overbay is 1 for 4 so far today.  He provides the D-Backs with a veteran presence while Goldscmidt tries to get back on track but at 35 he might not be an everyday player as his production has declined markedly the last few years.

With the injuries that the D-Backs have sustained this season they really couldn’t afford a slow start from Goldscmidt but that’s exactly what is happening.  A one month slump is one thing, but if Goldscmidt fails to hit weeks into May the D-Backs will need to look for help in other places.  With Overbay nearing the end of his useful life as an everyday first baseman, a veteran pickup–such as free agent Derek Lee–or perhaps a deal with a minor league starter could bring in another bat should Goldscmidt need a tour at Triple-A Reno to rehab his swing.

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