We spent a ton of time this summer talking about when Starling Marte would be ready. I think a lot of that discussion was centered around the idea of making sure Marte would be ready. I also think that if you ask what the ideal debut would be, the response would be similar to what we saw tonight: home run on the first pitch, a multi-hit night, and an at-bat where he went deep in to a count.
We could break down the pitching he faced, or talk about how he needs to do this consistently, but for now I say we enjoy the #MartePartay, and focus on one question. What if Starling Marte does make the successful jump to the majors and becomes a spark in the leadoff spot, adding some power in the process (kind of like Andrew McCutchen in 2009, although the plate patience isn’t as good)? Think about that lineup, with Marte at the top, Neil Walker hitting well at number two, and Andrew McCutchen, Garrett Jones, and Pedro Alvarez in the middle of the order. Add another bat, and that’s a team that can contend.
That’s my thought for the night. I’m cutting this short because I’ve been covering games since 11 AM today and this Florida humidity is killing me. Plus, I’ve got to be up tomorrow at 6 AM to head out to Pirate City early for some batting practice. Someone remind me to pick up a Red Bull for breakfast.
Links and Notes
**The Pirates beat the Astros 5-3.
**Pirates Notebook: Marte Impressive in Debut; Jones Hitting Lefties.
**Pirates Hoping Starling Marte Can Help Fill The Corner Outfield Void.
**Starling Marte Has Been Ready And Waiting.
**Prospect Watch: Big Night from Alex Dickerson.
**Prospect Notebook: Casey Sadler Is a Sleeper Pitching Prospect.
**Leroux Shines In Spot Start, Reyes Back On The Mound.
**2012 Second Round Pick Wyatt Mathisen Fractures Foot.
**Why Has Josh Bell’s Rehab Taken So Long?
