Audio: Vic loves right, but accepts new role in center

Outfielder Shane Victorino, who will take over for Aaron Rowand in center field, discussed the secret to unlocking his speed on the basepaths, his rising reputation as a top defender, his difference in home and away splits and whether he can be an everyday player over a 162-game schedule. [MP3] Extra reading: Check out my colleague Mike Drago's take on Victorino in the Reading Eagle. [Link]

Comments

[GM-Carson]

I know to stat geeks Shane isn't phenomenal by any means, but I love him and think he's a great player for this team.

[Reed]

the behind in the count #'s were interesting. great questions (and answers).
great job!

[GM-Carson]

BTW- looks like Livan Hernandez is going to Mets...via MLBTR.

[Andy]

It is so hard not to like this guy. He may not be the OBP/high average hitter that Whitey was, but his defense and "go-for-it" mentality certainly indicate that he has been cast from a similar mold.

[Dave X]

Victorino's offensive contributions are undersold by OPS alone. Given that his arm is double-plus and his range translates from RF to CF, center is going to be a strong suit for the Phils, Rowand or no Rowand.

[Dave X]

Should read : and if his range translates

[Josh M]

Jeff Fiorentino, 25 years old and a former prospect with the Orioles, was DFA'ed by Cincinnati today. He might be worth a look in our minor league system. He's a corner outfielder with some pop.

In news about former Phillies, Brandon Duckworth was DFA'ed by Kansas City.

[dajafi]

Carson, I don't want to speak for all "stat geeks," but I think everyone loves Victorino. He's flat-out fun to watch, and it's not like he's Nunez with the stick.

And FWIW, his on-base percentage has been better with the Phils in the big leagues than in his minor-league career. At 27 he's not a kid, but given his late start with high-level ball (not many great HS players in Hawaii) I think the best is yet to come. It wouldn't shock me if Shane turns into a sort of poor man's Brian Giles, from his Pirates days.

[dajafi]

Oh, and I like the Fiorentino idea--thought he'd be a good fit for the Phils when the O's cut him after the Roberson deal.

[GM-Carson]

Dajafia- I consider myself to be a "stat geek" most of the time, but I can stop outside that confinement to realize the worth of Victorino much like you can. I apologize for my blanket statement, it was mostly directed at Clout.

[Jon]

The Phils should look into both Fiorentino and Aardsma, even if both were nothing more than insurance at Allentown. I do think Aardsma would have a chance at cracking the bullpen though.

[BloodStripes]

Vic is flat-out awesome.

[SirAlden]

Victorino is flat-out awesome, his range is flat-out awesome, his arm is flat-out awesome, his speed is flat-out awesome, and his attitude is flat-out awesome.

We are damn lucky to have him.