The inclusion of Ronald Acuña Jr. in the Venezuelan roster for the World Baseball Classic is getting complicated and with the tournament very soon to start, manager Omar López must think of a replacement for the center field of the Vinotinto ninth, although the alternatives are somewhat limited.
The great offensive power of Acuña and his good defense are no secret to anyone, characteristics that are difficult to achieve in another center fielder. Venezuela has a couple of alternatives in that position and some that he could move from left or right field to center field.
The clearest option due to natural position would be Yonathan Daza, who is the starting center fielder for the Colorado Rockies and left interesting numbers last season; 301 average, 112 hits and 34 RBIs, while in defense as a center fielder he posted a 986 fielding percentage.
Avisaíl García and Anthony Santander are the ones who are called to be the right and left fielders, respectively. Although little, both have had experience playing in the center, García has played 90 games in his entire career as a center fielder, while Santander barely 24; on the other hand, the center field position demands more mobility and quickness, qualities that these outfielders may lack a bit.
Another good option is David Peralta, a fast left-handed outfielder who could cover midfield, although he has very little experience in that position, having done so only 23 times, although leaving a perfect fielding percentage.
Last, although less likely due to his lack of regularity, is Odúbel Herrera, who is also a natural CF and projects for this 2023 an average of .248 with 36 RBIs and 79 hits.
At the moment the roster that Omar López will take to the world event has not been made official, Venezuela will debut on March 11 against the Dominican Republic at LoanDepot Park in Miami, on the second date of group D of the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
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