Weiss previews Mark Reynolds' role with Rockies in 2016
Many wondered how veteran utility man Mark Reynolds would fit into the Colorado Rockies' plans for 2016 when he was acquired by the team last week.
Manager Walt Weiss muted the confusion on Wednesday by laying out what he envisions Reynolds' role will be on the Rockies next season.
Weiss told MLB.com that he plans to use Reynolds in a platoon scenario with Ben Paulsen at first base, offering flexibility between Paulsen's left-handed bat and Reynolds' right-handed power.
"I see them sharing time," Weiss said. "The fact that we are very left-handed, Reynolds' right-handed bat makes him a good fit for us. Plus, the fact he can play multiple positions fits in with the way we design a roster. He can go to the outfield on the corners and play third base, although Nolan [Arenado] doesn't miss much time."
Paulsen shined in his first full major-league season with the Rockies last year, hitting .277/.326/.462 with 11 home runs and 49 RBI in 116 games.
Of the platoon, Weiss said it would not be regimented and would not limit the playing time of the 28-year-old Paulsen, who showed promise at the position.
Despite becoming infamous for his towering strikeout totals, Reynolds provides the Rockies with a powerful bat off the bench, whether it be in substitution of Paulsen, on rare occasion Arenado, or in the outfield.
