Defense and OBP is still good stuff. In 2010, Figgins, in a down year playing out of position, had 74 walks and 42 SBs. If Ichiro rebounds and offers production at #2, can you see similar numbers being useful at the top of the order? But...we now have a real supporting cast: Ackley at 2nd instead of Lopez, Smoak at first instead of Kotchman, Carp instead of a Bradley, Wells instead of Byrnes, Seager/Ryan instead of Wilson. Pineda instead of Lee - that's a downgrade, but not by too much if a Bedard returns for a good first half. There's no RRS or Snell stinking up the back of the rotation. Olivo adds power as well, and the youngsters are better all around.
The fault of the 2010 model was not Figgins, but a lack of power, and true MOTO guys. If it clicks early in the season, Figgins even becomes a valuable chit for a team missing a leadoff hitter. If it doesn't, you have options for 3rd on the farm.
But get those walks that Figgins has produced all his career at the top of the order. Folow them with two bat maestros and Smoak, Carp. Recapture that good 3rd base glove for your young pitchers. Give it a month and a half. If it's a disaster, jettison and go to plan B.
If we got money to spend, it might do well to keep it in the bank after the first 2 months, and after we see what we got, go for what we need.
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