2006 v 2009: The Infield

Lets go position by position and compare 2006 roster with 2009 roster. We'll take the regular players at each position in 2006 versus the projected everyday players for 2009. Of course for this season, it could change quickly. At this time last year, we assumed that Jaques Jones would be the everyday left fielder, but he couldn't hit and couldn't play defense.

First base: Chris Shelton versus Miguel Cabrera

Defensively, Shelton probably gets an edge but I'll bet by the end of this year Cabrera is considered above average defensively. This will be Miguel's first full season at 1B so he gets a little bit of slack. Offensively this is a mismatch. Cabrera puts up MVP numbers and Shelton was awesome for one month his entire career. When they picked up Sean Casey at the trading deadline in 2006, the defense was very very good at this position but the offense still did not compare to Miguel.

Advantage: 2009

Second base: Polanco versus Polanco

I have to believe that the 2009 Placido is not at the same level as the 2006 version. I was very concerned about him consistently trying to pull the ball too much in '08. I would like to see him get about 3 singles to right field on opening day, that would make me feel a lot better. If he flies out to left, I will be groaning. Defensively, he slipped last year and he is 3 years older now.

Advantage: 2006

Third base: Inge versus Inge

There is no way Brandon will EVER be able to match, let alone surpass, his offensive numbers from 2006 (27 HR, 83 RBI, .253 BA). He is a lifetime .237 hitter (including his pathetic .205 in '08) so he has to show power to be valuable offensively. His defense will be stellar, but his offense will leave something to be desired.

Advantage: 2006

Shortstop: Guillen versus Everett

Offensively, this is a overwhelming advantage to Carlos. It is an equal mismatch to Everett defensively. Intangibles (leadership, clutch hits) make the deference.

Advantage: 2006

Catcher: Pudge versus Laird

Defensively, it is close but you have to give the nod to Pudge because people were scared to run on him. Laird is very good behind the plate and will cut guys down, but he doesn't strike fear the way the future Hall of Famer did. Offensively, even though he cannot take (or hit) a high strike to save his life, Pudge is clearly superior.

Advantage: 2006

Overall, the 2006 infield looks vastly better than the 2009 version. I hope I am wrong. I hope that Brandon can recapture some of his 2006 magic. I hope Adam is a better hitter than we expect. I hope these guys play defense the way we expect and hit better than expected.

Outfield will be next, then the pitchers and the bench.