Arizona Diamondbacks Spring Training Roster Report: Outfielders

CENTER FIELD

Aug 18, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks center fielder A.J. Pollock (11) gets high-fives in the dugout after scoring the game winning run against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the sixteenth inning at PNC Park. The Diamondbacks won 4-2 in sixteen innings. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Starter – A.J. Pollock
Backup – Cody Ross

Officially, this will be Pollock’s third year in the majors, but it’s basically his second full season. Last year, he hit .269 with five triples and 12 stolen bases. For a team that’s extremely short on speed, Pollock will be of some help. His on-base percentage of .322 leaves a bit to be desired, but with age and experience, that should improve.

Defensively, Pollock put together a .992 fielding percentage in center, which was the third-best in the National League. His eight assists were good for fourth in the National League. Until he gets slowed by age, you’ve got to believe his instincts will remain sharp. If he improves, he could be a dark horse Gold Glove candidate.