More at-bat appearances can help Zach Collier make Major League debut, says Dusty Wathan - MLB
Philadelphia Phillies’ staffer, Dusty Wathan believes that by having a greater number of at-bat appearances, Zach Collier can expedite his journey toward making a Major League debut.
Commenting on his comparison with Anthony Gose, who was also drafted by the Phillies along with Collier in 2008, Wathan suggested that it is just a matter of time when the latter turns out to be as good as the former.
Collier has recently been put on the 40-man roster by the Phillies but it is still uncertain whether they will allow him opportunities at the Major League level during 2013 regular season or not.
Experts maintain that the fact the Phillies included him on the roster is an indication of their faith in his abilities.
Apart from having him on the roster, the Phillies made Collier play Arizona Fall League, which is another signal of their trust in him.
Collier took his time to develop skills. Since being drafted, he has hardly shown anything substantial in the Minor League until the last few years when his technique and power at the plate improved suddenly.
He has been so impressive in the last many games that the officials can seriously consider him as an option in the outfield.
While playing in Arizona, he was excellent in all three positions that he manned in the outfield. According to Wathan, who was his manager there, Collier is now a much improved player. His technique at the plate is far more reliable at the moment.
The reason why Gose did Major League debut earlier than Collier is because he faced more at-bats in the Minors. Once Collier achieves the same number in this regard, he will also be on his way to become a regular big league player.
“The tools are all in there,” Wathan said. “It’s just a matter of getting them out in a game and being consistent. You look at him and Gose. Gose had a lot more at-bats. Zach needs to catch up with his at-bats. If it takes him a little longer to reach his
potential, that’s fine. The ultimate goal is to get him there and hopefully once he gets there he can stay.”
Collier will be looking to grab all opportunities that he gets and make sure he convinces officials of allowing him to play in the team.
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