Lots of discussion in other threads on this topic. If we can keep only one who would you pick? Tony Kemp: .231/.313/.738 BA/OBP/OPS 4/7 SB Myles Straw .274/.398/.740 7/8 SB Personal opinion: Spoiler Tony Kemp is a great guy by all indications. Hugs for homers, classic. Solid bottom of the lineup guy. Above average speed, slightly more power than Straw. But for me it's Straw all day. First of all his at bats are wonderful, just does whatever he can to get on base. Never takes home run hacks, just smart swings to find holes, and shows above average plate discipline. The guy clearly knows himself and that his weapon is his unbelievable speed. Once he is on base, forgetaboutit. I was really bummed last season when he didn't make the playoff roster and really believe he could have pushed us over the edge. His value as a pinch-runner alone is massive in the playoffs. What do yall think?
I really like Kemp and what he brings to the table, but it's got to be Straw. His OBP and speed make him invaluable, and even though he's clearly still learning the position, it's huge to have another guy who can play shortstop on the roster. If Kemp ultimately does get let go, he'll absolutely find his way to another major league roster. He's definitely capable a major leaguer, but it's hard to find room for him on a roster this stacked.
Straw just brings more to the table, IMO. He's a far superior defensive outfielder, plays a passable SS, gets on base at a better clip and, of course, is way faster. I love Kemp. He's, by all accounts, a fantastic clubhouse guy. Straw just does more on the field.
Straw has more versatility, can be used as a baserunner in the playoffs, and has more options so I'd pick Straw. Though, I expect results will be a lot more lopsided than their future performance will be.
What @jim1961 said. If you are talking about this season, send Straw down until 08/31. If you are talking about the future, Straw.
In this hypothetical where I can only pick one...Straw In reality, the Astros can send Straw down for a month and then bring him back when the roster expands in September.
Kemp doesn't do anything at an elite level. He is very versatile, but I don't know if we will need that in the playoffs if everyone is healthy. Straw does one thing at an elite level. The man can run very fast. This is something that could win us a game in the playoffs. I would keep Straw just for his pinch running skills.
Straw will be on the playoff roster just like he was last year but my bet is that he's sent down until Sept 1st call ups.
Yep; what many others have said: Kemp likely gets the pass right now because of his lack of options - but I think it's likely Straw is back 9/1 and on the playoff roster. The one potential caveat: could Kemp be dealt? They could potentially flip him for a lower-level flyer.
Straw... was not on the playoff roster last year. Right?... I remember being convinced he *would* be and then surprised he wasn't. I think he will be this year, though.
Just go ahead and start the wave while blowing a vuvuzela and dancing to the rally monkey why doncha?
