Love that he's getting his time to shine. He has worked hard, especially on hitting. You're right, he needs to be somewhere at the top of the lineup every weekend. The infield is VERY up in the air. I'd say maybe keep Ball at second and everything else is a question mark. Is Pete Daniel coming back? Where will Clay play? There was some word he'd have some outfield reps in the '26 season before his injury. Clay's glove work is unmatched. He should be somewhere in the field. You also need to have Lutterman in the lineup somewhere. Although he showed good outfield tools, I think he's a great third baseman. Fall will be telling. It may be that Hankins starts out at DH alongside Willie Hurt or Aiden Arnett at first.

If Hankins is legit, there may be more infield talent than our boys can get on the field and in the lineup at one time.

But he needs at bats to reach his potential. I assume he will get them. He's got a ton of power but also appears to have swing and miss. After what they did with Ball, whom also had swing and miss in his profile, I assume they're aiming for similar development throughout the season.

He would likely be able to get cage work in the fall, but no on-field.

Thanks for the info. Hopefully it goes well and he can get some swings before the 2027 season.