With three games in the books, the new and improved Atlanta Braves look like they have the chance to be as good as advertised. Impressive performances from the rookie phenom Jason Heyward, Brian McCann, and the bullpen (including closer Billy Wagner) are among popular topics in the Peach State and fans are excited.
However, in my opinion there is one dark spot within the lineup that I feel deserves some attention. That spot is the play of the first baseman, and Atlanta newcomer Troy Glaus.
Following the already questionable deal that brought Melky Cabrera to Atlanta and dealt Javier Vasquez to the evil empire, Atlanta took a risk and opted not to resign 1B Adam LaRoche, and to instead sign Troy Glaus from the St. Louis Cardinals.
Last year, the 33-year-old had his season cut short with an unfortunate shoulder injury that required a surgical procedure. To compensate, he was moved from third to first base. The position change combined with the injury made him a considerable risk, but with a potential for high reward. In 2008, he was good for a .270 average with 27 homers.
Since arriving in Atlanta, Glaus' accolades through three games include six strikeouts (including an 0-4, with 4 K's on Wednesday), 0 RBI, and a miserable double play on Thursday with the bases loaded. His defense hasn't been bad for the most part, but he's still already logged an error in the very young season.
Similar to Raul Ibanez in Philadelphia, one can only hope this is just a very slow start and not a reflection of his age or overflow from last year's injury. One thing's for sure, the strikeouts have got to stop.
The fact of the matter is that he looks lost at the plate with a very slow swing. Certainly not an improvement over last year's LaRoche, or what he "could have been" this year.
Is it too early too be writing this article? Probably. But if i'm Eric Hinske waiting in the wings as a pretty well-established pinch hitter, or a LaRoche supporter who feels like Adam got a raw deal, I've certainly got any eye on that first base position.
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