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Houston Astros Spring Training Battles: First Base
TYLER WHITE
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Tyler White is a triumph for the Astros’ scouting team. Taken 977th overall in the 33rd round of the 2013 draft, White mashed the Texas League to the tune of a .325 average, .442 OBP, .496 SLG, and 0.939 OPS with 14 home runs. He thrived when he was called up to Triple-A Fresno and won the Dominican League MVP this winter.
White drew an impressive 84 walks to only 73 strikeouts, and his exceptional plate discipline is a considerable breath of fresh air for the Astros. His pull-hitting tendencies should couple well with his patience at Minute Maid Park.
He, like Matt Duffy, can play both 1B and 3B, which gives the Astros a number of platoon combinations. But unlike Matt Duffy, White’s defense is in question, and it could be the difference maker at a crowded position. One season may be a small sample size, but if he carries his offensive momentum into the 2016 season, he can force his way into the Astros’ roster.
Next: Matt Duffy