[Mick]

A few numbers to consider…

2022 OBP v. all pitchers: Slater .366, Pederson .353 (I would not characterize that as “has the best OBP on the team - by a mile”).  

Slater 2021 OBP v. RH: .230, OPS: .497
Slater 2022 OBP v. RH: .350, OPS: .710

Was 2022 an aberation or did he finally unlock the secret to hitting v. RH?  This season should provide us an answer.  I remain skeptical until he puts two seasons back-to-back.  

We absolutely agree on his value on the base paths.  He is an outstanding base stealer.  And, he is invaluable re: pinch hitting v. LH.  

Now, if someone can coach him regarding hitting the cutoff man………..


The Belt Wars are over.  Let the Slater Wars commence…..

Yes, after Pederson, for players with at least 200 ABs and are still in the organization, it drops to .322 (Estrada), .316 (Flores), .308 (Crawford).

Slater's career split vs. righties is terrible. He took a major leap last year, one that I think is lasting, particularly in a season where the league average BA is .242. He's figured the righties out, IMHO. But like you say, we'll find out this year.

[Mick]

A few numbers to consider…

2022 OBP v. all pitchers: Slater .366, Pederson .353 (I would not characterize that as “has the best OBP on the team - by a mile”).  

Slater 2021 OBP v. RH: .230, OPS: .497
Slater 2022 OBP v. RH: .350, OPS: .710

Was 2022 an aberation or did he finally unlock the secret to hitting v. RH?  This season should provide us an answer.  I remain skeptical until he puts two seasons back-to-back.  

We absolutely agree on his value on the base paths.  He is an outstanding base stealer.  And, he is invaluable re: pinch hitting v. LH.  

Now, if someone can coach him regarding hitting the cutoff man………..


The Belt Wars are over.  Let the Slater Wars commence…..

Yes, after Pederson, for players with at least 200 ABs and are still in the organization, it drops to .322 (Estrada), .316 (Flores), .308 (Crawford).

Slater's career split vs. righties is terrible. He took a major leap last year, one that I think is lasting, particularly in a season where the league average BA is .242. He's figured the righties out, IMHO. But like you say, we'll find out this year.