First, go read what Chris had to say about the Freddy Sanchez injury — Seriously, baseball gods, you’re going to wipe out “Fred-dy, Fred-dy, Fred-dy” now? This includes what impact, if any, the to-be-signed Bill Hall can have on the Giants’ roster and “offense.” The fact that we was dropped by the Astros, of all teams, doesn’t bode well.
At this point, you hope Sanchez can make it back late this season. Beyond that, though, you’re desperate he can make it back and have something left after Sabean extended him.
Looking further ahead, it almost seems fitting that the Giants have signed their first pick in the 2011 draft today, Joe Panik. He’s a shortstop that isn’t flashy and doesn’t have a ton of athleticism or tools, but does appear to possess the “hit tool.” Many scouts believe he’ll move to second where his below-average arm will play better. They’ve also likened him to — you guessed it — Freddy Sanchez.
Without a ton of upside, he’s expected to move through the system quickly and provide at least some value when he arrives. (Whether he’s a utility player or solid regular is the question.) In any case, he won’t arrive soon enough.
