Trade Allows Adam Eaton to be the AZ D’Backs Everyday Center Fielder

This past Saturday’s trades closed one era for the Arizona Diamondbacks and began another.  Chris Young, the every day Center Fielder for the past six seasons was traded to the Oakland A’s.  In his place goes Adam Eaton, the 2012 Pacific Coast League MVP.   Hopefully by Spring Training, Eaton will have fully recovered from his broken hand he suffered on September 29th.

60 stolen bases in 2013 for Adam Eaton? That would work for me. Image: Matt Kartozian-US PRESSWIRE

Although there is a tinge of sadness to see Young go, I am very excited to see what Eaton can do playing full-time in the Majors.  I would love for him to be the first real big threat on the basepaths for Arizona since Tony Womack.  He has the makeup to be a real igniter for the offense that was lethargic for long stretches of the season.  Although we can not expect the .381 average he hit for Reno in 2012, a .290 mark and an on-base percentage of .380 does not seem unreasonable.   There is also the added bonus of his defense.  With his legs, he will be asked to cover a lot of ground particularly if Jason Kubel is in Left Field.  Being 5-8 and 185 pounds does not hinder his capacity to nail opposing baserunners.  If you need proof, check out one of (if not the best) defensive play by a D’Back last season by clicking here.

Eaton’s exposure to the Major Leagues last season should help him as he eases into his starter’s role.  The learning curve will not be great and we hope the struggles will be brief.  I look forward to the excitement the new Center Fielder will be bringing fans in 2013.

Like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter @venomstrikes

Follow me on Twitter @ltj41 and at www.clearthebases.net