Bloody Nipples wrote:In 267 ABs last year, Utley had 13 HRs, 57 RBI, 36 R, and 4 SB.
In 503 ABs last year, Polanco had 15 HRs, 55 RBI, 74 R, and 7 SB.
I think its clear that Ultey is a much better hitter. I'm not sure about their defense, but I would think that Polanco's defense would have to be almost twice as good as Utley's to make him the starter over Utley.
well, i don't really think 250 ABs necessarily gives us a good look at a player's ability? for one thing, i have no idea where each of those players batted in the lineup for those ABs.
also, polanco batted .300 with a .350 OBP last year, while utely was dismal at .266/.308. utley also managed the match polanco's Ks in half the ABs last season as well, and to top things off, their SLG%s were almost identical.
not only is polanco better suited for the 2-hole than utley he's also just a better all-around hitter.