Yasmani Grandal impresses, but likely to start in Triple-A

YasmaniGrandal
PEORIA, Ariz. -- There's certainly a lot to like about Yasmani Grandal's bat, as the switch-hitting catcher came to the Padres from the Reds in December with what was considered a plus-bat tool.

The defense, many figured, would follow and possibly slowly.

But so far, Grandal has impressed with his bat -- he's hitting .346 with one home run and nine RBIs -- and his glove, particularly his ability to block pitches in the dirt.

"Grandal has been better than expected in camp, thanks to his hard work and the tutelage of Terry Kennedy, Brad Ausmus, John Gibbons and Justin Hatcher," manager Bud Black said Friday.

"It's going to be a process," Black said. "There's some things he needs to continue to work on. But in a short time, he's done some good work. He's done a good job."

Grandal moved fast through the Reds system, advancing to Triple-A last season. Still, he has only 402 Minor League at-bats and figures to benefit -- offensively and defensively -- from a season in the Minor Leagues, likely with Triple-A Tucson.


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(mlb.com)
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