Sporting News' Stan McNeal has a post on ten rookies who could make an impact for their respective major league teams. Tommy Manzella is one of those rookies. Take it away, McNeal:
A third-round pick in 2005, he batted .268 in 1,991 minor league at-bats but defense is considered his strength. Manzella was called up last September but because Miguel Tejada was chasing personal milestones, Manzella batted only five times, striking out four times.
Tejada's departure left an opening at shortstop. Instead of bringing in a veteran, the Astros decided the time has come for the 26-year-old Manzella.
Expect Manzella to solidify his starting status in spring training. His defense is major league-ready and he has improved with the bat.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
