Jon Heyman had an interesting and unexpected update today on Ike Davis. The Pittsburgh Pirates’ first baseman has been working in the outfield to improve his versatility.
ike davis is working on taking balls in the OF out here in arizona to improve his versatility.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 12, 2014
The Pirates have Pedro Alvarez and Ike Davis as left-handed platoon options at first base, and the belief is that one of those two will be traded this off-season. It’s possible that the Pirates could go with neither player and add a full-time first baseman. As for Davis working in the outfield, it doesn’t make a lot of sense for the Pirates. They have Travis Snider as an expensive bench option, and a fourth outfielder who could take over if Gregory Polanco struggles or if someone gets injured. At best, Davis would be the fifth best outfield option for the Pirates, and maybe the backup left-handed first base option. Basically he would be Andrew Lambo, but making $4 M extra.
Of course, Davis could be working on versatility for another team to ensure that he finds a situation that gives him plenty of playing time. That would make more sense, although I think his best value is going to be at first base.
