TCB March Madness 2013: Brandon Barnes Vs Jonathan Villar

TCB's Astros Fan Favorite March Madness Tournament is underway. From now until the end of Spring Training, 64 players will face off in a head-to-head public vote to determine who advances to the next round, and who will eventually be crowned the community's favorite Astros player. For more details, click here for the introductory post.

The rules are simple: Determine which player you think should advance to the next round by voting for that player. Arguments made for an advancing player in the comments section below may be used in that player's description for the next round. Vote subjectively, objectively or by using your trusty magic eight ball. Votes will last exactly 24 hours.

In this match-up:

12 - Brandon Barnes

Brandon Barnes, the human highlight reel, made his debut with the Astros last year and while his bat left something to be desired his defense was outstanding as he provided several highlight reel catches for those watching. While he struggled in his short stint int he majors last year he did post an .894 OPS In 446 plate apperances between AA and AAA last year. He's a bit of unknown for this team going forward but if anything he's proven that determination and hard work pay off.

Vs

41 - Jonathan Villar

If Cosart is the poster child for tools over production, Villar is next in line at that photo shoot. But, it's easy to lose track of what the toolsy shortstop has done. He's hitting at a decent rate and has the tools to be a good defender at short. He does have valid detractors, though, talking about his contact rate and his sub-par actua defense. Still, if he hadn't broken his hand punching a clubhouse door, Villar probably would have made his major league debut last season. -David