McDonald over Eckstein

[kimchi_chigae]

Joe Sheehan from Baseball Prospectus has suggested that the Jays should play John McDonald over David Eckstein. He believes McDonald's defense is more valuable to the Jays than Eckstein's OBP, basically because the Jasy have 4 starters who are ground-ball pitchers and 4 four in the bullpen.

What do you guys think about it?

[Rotundor]

I LOVE Johnny Mac's defense. Unfortunately, we've been needing a true leadoff hitter for a while and Macdonald's offense is a HUGE liability.

Hopefully being flanked by Rolen and Aaron Hill, both a whom are above average defenders will make up for Eckstein's defensive shortcomings.

[Irish Drunk]

I don't think McDonald's defensive abilities over Eckstein's outweigh Eckstein's offensive abilities over McDonalds. With that Eckstein should be the starter. Eckstein also brings the intangibles, a strong work ethic and a good clubhouse presence.

[sportsguy138]

It's tough to tell which is of more benefit. I wonder if there's some sort of way to find that out. I remember some guy did something like it last year, on the fan 590, to see if Mac is worth being a number 1 starter at SS. Although it wasn't all accurate, it showed that he was, according to the broadcaster.

[CineMamet]

It's tough to tell which is of more benefit. I wonder if there's some sort of way to find that out. I remember some guy did something like it last year, on the fan 590, to see if Mac is worth being a number 1 starter at SS. Although it wasn't all accurate, it showed that he was, according to the broadcaster.

Sounds like a job for Bill James. If only the Jays could have stolen the Man from Boston.