AL East 2015: Ranking the Third Basemen
By Nate Wardle
Aug 14, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Tampa Bay Rays designated hitter Evan Longoria (3) prior to his at bat in the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
2. Tampa Bay Rays – Evan Longoria, Logan Forsythe, Juan Francisco
Evan Longoria had probably his worst full season in the majors last year, despite playing in every game. On a team that desperately needs offense, it is possible that Longoria was pressing to try to fill that void.
Longo hit .253/.320/.404, well below his career averages of .271/.351/.494. Despite playing every game, his number of doubles and home runs was tied for the lowest in his career. He also had the worst season of his career in the field, committing 13 errors. The three-time All-Star is certainly one of the best in the game and will try to prove that again in 2015.
Both Forsythe and Francisco are battling for utility positions on the Rays’ roster, and both are just that, nothing more than utility players.
Next: Here comes Machado