Options for Phillies Outfield: Alfonso Soriano and Michael Cuddyer

Posted by on Jan 9th, 2013

cuddyer-soriano

Add Alfonso Soriano and Michael Cuddyer to the list of outfield options for Philadelphia

In a press conference on Monday, Ruben Amaro Jr. went on record one more time about needing one more new face in the Phillies clubhouse.

As I’ve previously stated, the Phillies are still looking for a corner outfielder. In a recent report,  two new names were added to the Phils’ radar – Alfonso Soriano and Michael Cuddyer.

As we get closer to the February 18th pitcher and catcher report date, the likelihood of a big signing seems to be slimming.

The additions of Mike Adams, Ben Revere, John Lannan, and Michael Young have Amaro feeling confident though.

“They’re not Josh Hamilton, and they’re not Zack Greinke, but they’re moves were important to our team,” said Amaro on Monday.

As I’ve mentioned in this space before, I have some concern about the aging Phillies infield and depth in the outfield.

With guys like Freddy Galvis and Kevin Frandsen, the infield depth should not become an issue. However, as Amaro has stated several times, the Phillies need that fresh new face.

Much like earlier in the week, let’s take a look at the other two outfielders on Amaro’s radar.

Alfonso Soriano

Soriano will 37 years old when the season begins and there’s been some talk over the last few seasons about him being washed up.

Year

G

AB

H

2B

HR

RBI

SO

BA

OBP

SLG

2010

147

496

128

40

24

79

123

.258

.322

.496

2011

137

475

116

27

26

88

113

.244

.289

.469

2012

151

561

147

33

32

108

153

.262

.322

.499

Yes. He’s gotten older and he doesn’t steal as many bases, but his numbers in 2010 and 2012 are strikingly similar.

When used in the appropriate platoon format, Soriano looks like a guy who can contribute for a few more seasons.

Michael Cuddyer

Year

G

AB

H

2B

HR

RBI

SO

BA

OBP

SLG

2010

157

609

165

37

14

81

93

.271

.336

.417

2011

139

529

150

29

20

70

95

.284

.346

.459

2012

101

358

93

30

16

58

78

.260

.317

.489

Do you notice anything strikingly similar about the last three seasons for Cuddyer and Soriano?

The same thing applies for Cuddyer, 33, that I talked about with Soriano. When used in a platoon environment against the right pitchers, he can contribute.

Please feel free to use the comments section below to weigh in on your favorite choice to add depth to the Phillies outfield!