Late last week the Rays signed Eric Hinske to a minor league deal and invited him to spring training. Hinkse played a valuable role and a bench player for the Red Sox. Hinske on the Rookie of the Year award with the Blue Jays during his first year with the Jays in 2002. From 2002 to 2004, Hinske played third base exclusively. Hinske began to struggle after his rookie season and has bounced around the league since then.
Last year with the Red Sox Hinske showed his versatility by playing left field, right field, and first base. Given the youth of the Rays and some injury problems, picking up Hinske at this price is very reasonable. Hinske hasn’t had a season as good as his rookie season but his veteran leadership and playoff experience could be very valuable to the Rays.
Should Hinske make make the big league roster he will probably start from time to time when players need rest and should do some pinch-hitting. Here’s a peek at his numbers from last season:
- .204/.317/.398 6 HR in 186 at bats.
