"As of right now, that's what we're looking at," Collins said. "He's really worked at the pitch selection. He's got a nice idea at the plate, he makes pitchers work. He can bunt for a hit and he can hit a homer. He's not getting very many easy, first-pitch fastballs."
Valdespin clearly has plenty of talent, but his attitude has been concerning. Some older players and coaches have been annoyed by his cocky attitude, but many, including Terry Collins, claim that the veteran players will "keep him in line."
Assuming that he calms down a bit, I feel like he would be an excellent addition to the every-day lineup. Last season I worried about his swing, given that he is/was a free-swinger, and has the tendency to strike out a ton. That is certainly not what you look at in a leadoff hitter, but this spring he has looked so good, and his speed definitely gives him a bonus.
As for Opening Day, I believe that Collin Cowgill will get the nod in center field (since the team is facing left hander Clayton Richard of the Padres). The organization seems like they want to keep Valdespin in the outfield, so it is possible to see a platoon situation in center field. If that is true, then I would have to believe Valdespin would get the opportunity to be a leadoff hitter.
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