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DESPITE HIGH STRIKEOUT TOTAL, HAIRSTON PROVING HIS VALUE by Jason Martinez posted 6/07/08 If Manager Bud Black was to pencil Scott Hairston's name into the lineup card everyday for the rest of the season, he could very well approach the club's single-season strikeout record of 160, set last season by Mike Cameron. But he might also hit 25 home runs, including many of the late-inning, game-winning variety. Since April 29th, the 28 year-old Hairston is batting .264 with 6 HR, 10 RBI, and eight doubles, including three hits in yesterday's win. So why is he not considered the long-term answer in LF or CF? Over the same span, he's struck out 27 times, while walking just six times. Unless he's hitting 35-40 HR's, that kind of walk-to-strikeout ratio is not acceptable from a starting outfielder. Especially on a team that has a few other regulars on pace to break the single-season strikeout record. However, Hairston could turn out to be one of the more valuable fourth outfielders in the National League with his comination of speed, power, and clutch hitting. He also continues to play excellent defense, saving the game with a diving catch of a bases-loaded drive off the bat of Mets 3rd baseman David Wright in last night's game. Realistically, top prospect Chase Headley will likely cut into Hairston's playing time once he arrives from AAA Portland. This will leave Hairston fighting for playing time in center field with Jody Gerut, who is having a very impressive comeback season at age 30. But until then, Hairston will be able to delay the inevitable callup of Headley with a few more games like he had last night. |