WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- There has never been a question about Jake Marisnick's defensive ability and baserunning, both of which are at elite levels. His swing continues to be a "work in progress," Astros manager A.J. Hinch said, and the 25-year-old outfielder admitted Sunday he spent more time refining his swing this winter than ever before.
Despite the offseason additions of outfielders Josh Reddick, Norichika Aoki and Carlos Beltran, who will get most of his at-bats at designated hitter, Marisnick remains a key piece for the Astros. He's their best defensive outfielder, and if he can come around at the plate, it will be hard to keep him off the field.