Trading away Carlos Gomez opened up a space in the Astros’ outfield. So, after had already made a splash this offseason, Houston strikes again by signing Josh Reddick. The former Oakland A will be with the Astros for 4 years earning a total of $52 million. But, is he the best fit in that remeaining outfield spot considering the other possibilities on the market?
After this signing, the first question is about the fact that Reddick is primarily a right fielder. The problem is that George Springer is already there. The Astros have already dealt with this issue by moving Springer to center. However, he isn’t a true center-fielder, despite him logging over 2000 innings in center during his time in the minors. Springer has come into his own playing in right field in Minute Maid Park. He has one of the best arms in the game today, so his move to center might eliminate the use of that weapon. But, he is still an above average defender, and moving him to center shouldn’t cause any harm. Now Josh Reddick can continue his brilliance in right, and hopefully collect a second career gold glove.
Not only does Reddick fit in well because of his golden glove, but his left-handed bat will be of significance in the middle of that lineup. After the acquisition of McCann, adding another left handed bat is important in the right-handed heavy Astros’ lineup. Reddick brings a good combination of pop and speed. He has a tendency to be inconsistent, but despite that, he still manages to have plenty of quality plate appearances. The last 4 seasons Reddick has a contact percentage of over 80%, while the league averages is 78%. He also averages to see around 4 pitches per plate appearence, which is also above league average. Considering value of players today, $13 million/year for Reddick who has an average WAR of 2.9 over the past 5 seasons is worth it.
Reddick has had an OPS+ over 100 every year since 2013. Injuries have a significant role in Reddick’s inconsistency, but when he plays in more than 145 games, he racks up killer numbers. His 2015 campaign ended with 20 homers and 77 RBI’s in 149 games played. And his 2012 season saw 32 dingers and 85 RBI’s after appearing in 150+ games. With the protection that Reddick should get in the Astros lineup, and his potential to be a three or even 4 tool all-star, proves the Astro uniform will fit him well.
