SCOTTSDALE — The improbable and thrilling Tortoise Race has run its course, but Joe Panik and Matt Duffy aren't done with friendly competition.
Panik, who hit .312 in his first full big league season, is ready to go up against Duffy in a battle to see who piles up more hits. Duffy batted .295 last year and hit .313 or better in three consecutive summer months as he took over the third base job.
“For our style of game, that type of race would be a little more fun,” Panik said. “I think both of us, if we stay within our approach, can really have an actual tight race.