The Professional Hitter

MATT DIAZ
Position: Left Fielder
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Height: 6'1'
Weight: 203 lbs.
2009 Age: 31

Matt Diaz, who had posted consecutive seasons of averages over .320 (.327, .338) for Atlanta, was given the starting job last season. However, he didn't hit. A knee injury forced him out for most of last year. He has been in a platoon role his entire Braves career (he has an .869 OPS against lefties in six seasons of major league baseball) and that looks to be the reason he should stick around.

My Outlook: It looks like Garret Anderson is going to get the lion's share of the playing time in left field. If Diaz is to be part of the Braves, it will be in either a platoon role with Anderson.