2015 TCB Astros March Madness: Jake Marisnick vs. Mark Appel

Just a reminder; voting will stay open for 24 hours for each of these match-ups, and there will be two match-ups per day. For a complete breakdown, check out the introductory post if you haven't already. Here's a link to the first round's wrap up post (wherein you'll find the updated bracket) if you need it. Get those votes in while you can!

Round Two, Match Three

Jake Marisnick, OF

Defense! Defense! This is Marisnick's calling card. Jake was acquired as a part of the Cosart to Miami deal. Marisnick will have a long career as a reserve outfielder at worst because of his defensive prowess. He's rangey and has an arm that plays well from all outfield positions. The question marks with Jake totally revolve around his bat. He has a career .800 OPS in the minor leagues including a 150 wRC+ in 298 plate appearances in 2013 in AA, but his bat has been sporadic at best in the majors so far. Marisnick does not have to be a slugger to be very valuable thanks to his defensive value. If Marisnick can just figure out the stick enough to be a league average hitter, he will make this trade with Miami prove to be a big win. -- IrishPete

VS.

Mark Appel, RHP

I just can’t...well I guess I should. I’m a big Appel fan and anything I say about last season runs the risk of being called an apologist. The time in Lancaster was dreadful. Double-A was better.  AFL was very good and at times called dominant. The stuff is still there to be a top of the rotation type, but he needs to tighten up his command and attack hitters. He seemed too hesitant this year. -- Subber10