Most reactions I saw to the Astros’ recent trade with Toronto were overwhelmingly positive, and it is easy to understand why. With Marwin Gonzalez all but out the door, there was some speculation that Yuli Gurriel might take over the infield utility role, but his inability to play shortstop and less than spectacular work at second base make him less than ideal as a true utility player. Diaz, on the other hand, has logged significant time at second, third and short and provides similar value to Gonzalez with the glove. While Marwin is overall the better player, Diaz will be able to fill a very similar role and could even outperform expectations if his walk rate can rebound.
Profiling Trent Thornton
