Are We Missing the Outfield Boat?

Is it just me or do we appear to be missing the boat on some outfielders who have come available?

Chad Huffman, a former 2nd round pick of the Padres was recently claimed by the Yankees. The number one thing that got my attention is the fact that the Yankees were the ones putting in the claim. Now granted the Yanks don’t have a lot of depth in the upper minors, but this is a guy who hit 20 homers with a respectable batting average. Like all sluggers he struck out too much (over 100 times) but not yet 25 appears to still have some potential to improve.

Jai Miller was recently claimed by the A’s from the Marlins. According to mlb rumors some think he could be a talented player who becomes a late bloomer. Just turned 25, this former 4th round pick, Miller hit a respectable .289 last year with 16 homers and has some speed having stolen 20 bases in 2008.

Two players with talent and still considered to have some upside compared to Aaron Mathews who is nearly 28, has never hit 10 homers and last year ground into 18 double plays. He did have only a single error so defense appears to be his only saving grace, but wouldn’t we promote another strong defensive player, Jeremy Reed , if we needed a strong defensive outfielder for the big team?

Considering our lack of outfield depth on the farm, why wouldn’t the Jays have taken a chance on one of these guys with some upside?

William Bruyea