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FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -- The race to be the starter in center field is coming more into focus in Marlins camp.
On Wednesday morning, Reggie Abercrombie was optioned to Triple-A Albuquerque. Barring some further developments -- like a trade, which is certainly possible -- the battle for the starting spot has come down to Eric Reed and non-roster invitee Alex Sanchez.
Reed and Sanchez are similar players, both being speedy left-handed hitters who rely heavily on playing "small ball." Neither has much power and both are singles-type hitters who count on bunting to help get on base.
"I think the two other guys are a little bit ahead of him," manager Fredi Gonzalez said of Abercrombie's situation. "We felt it was time for those guys to play a little bit more."
Asked if it is a two-player race, Gonzalez said: "You could say that. We also have that secret weapon. He hasn't played it, but he can play out there."
The "secret weapon" is versatile switch-hitter Alfredo Amezaga, who has worked exclusively as a backup middle infielder this spring. He made 64 starts in center a year ago.
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The Official Site of the Florida Marlins' News: Florida Marlins' News
I highly doubt he'll be in the minor league this season for any lengthy amount of time. He has great speed and is a dependable fielder, so he will be on the 25-man roster shortly into the season.
Abercrombie optioned to Triple-A
Abercrombie optioned to Triple-A
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