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If Mathis persists, is Napoli trade bait?


First of all, let's get this out of the way - I am aware of how young the season is, and how small the sample size is that we are looking at. So, there is no need to respond along those lines.

Now, to the point. Thus far, Jeff Mathis has collected 8 hits in 24 AB (.333), including 1 HR and 2 RBI, while Mike Napoli has only had 9 AB. Defensively, Napoli did not erase a single base stealer in Spring Training, but has gotten 1 of 5 in the season. Mathis caught 8 is ST, but has gotten 0 of 2 in the season.

I would like to hear people's predictions, will Mathis continue to hit well? If so, does that make Mike Napoli trade bait this season, or will we let him waste away this year so he can DH next year? And if he is expendable, what area of the team could we stand to bolster in a possible deal? Did I hear someone say Granderson?

Personally, I have always favored Napoli. I think what he contributes offensively outways any shortcomings he may have defensively, and it is insane to bench a guy who could hit 40 HR if he's given the ABs. Conversely, I don't think Mathis will sustain his brief, early success in the box this season. However, if he somehow does establish himself as the better defensive catcher AND and an offensive threat, it creates some opportunity for the Angels.

Again, I know it's just the butt crack of dawn on long-ass seaon, but the serious lack of Naps has already got me thinking.

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