LaRoche leading first basemen in free agency

Posted by Rob Boudreau Categories: Athletes, Editorial, Front Office, MLB

First base is one of the toughest positions to fill offensively, but one of the easiest defensively. The notion that first base is a “power hitter’s position” makes it difficult for the teams to find a right fit. If a first baseman isn’t hitting 30+ home runs, fans call for the GM’s head. With only two “Type B” free agent first basemen in this year’s free agent crop in Nick Johnson and Adam LaRoche – eight and 25 home runs respectively – it’s slim pickings for teams looking to upgrade.

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Pirates Claim Phelps Off Waivers

Posted by Milo Taibi Categories: Athletes, Editorial, MLB

On Friday the Pittsburgh Pirates claimed First Baseman/Catcher Josh Phelps from waivers. In 36 games this year with the New York Yankees Josh hit .262 with two home runs and 12 rbi’s. Phelps was getting his playing time in New York playing first base, but with the emergence of Miguel Cairo the Bronx Bombers did not have a place on their team for Phelps. He is known for his power (He hit 20 home runs in 2003 with the Toronto Blue Jays), and hits very well against left handed pitching (A career .289 average against left handed pitchers).  With Adam Laroche not living up to standards at first base, this is a nice pickup for a Pirates team in need of more offense.

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