Tracy Returns To The Lineup But Is He The Right Man For The Job?

Chad Tracy made his return to the Diamondbacks lineup today with a 1-for-4 performance. His return marks the end of an almost nine month rehab process from micro-fracture surgery. The question is should Tracy's injury guarantee him his roster spot?

According to doctors Tracy's full rehabilitation could take upwards of 18 months. That means Tracy could conceivably be at only half strength. In the long run though, is Chad Tracy at half strength worth more than another player in the Diamondbacks system at full strength?

The D-Backs have the perfect answer to the question. Trot Nixon, an 11 year Major League veteran, is waiting at Triple-A Tucson. He is waiting for a chance to prove himself again in the bigs.

Nixon, a career .275 hitter with 136 home runs and 554 RBI, has been in the Pacific Coast League for the entire 2008 campaign. In his 129 at bats for the Sidewinders he is hitting .302 with 7 home runs, 25 RBI and an OBP of .455.

Nixon's career experience, statistics and his lack of injury are all points in his favor. Nixon's major draw back? He has very limited time at first base. His most extensive experience came in spring training. Tracy, on the other hand, has experience in the majors at first and third base.

Nixon's experience can help fill a void on the Diamondbacks that was created when Tony Clark left for San Diego. He can provide veteran leadership and a power bat off of the bench, a role that Tracy has yet to prove he can provide.

Unless Tracy can prove in the next few weeks that he is fully recovered, the D-Backs owe it to Nixon to give him a shot. He accepted a minor league contract and has not complained about is time in Triple-A. If they don't call him up to the majors they risk losing him to an opt out clause in his contract.

The situation seems as if Tracy has rushed himself back from surgery to help his team and his standing in the organization. If he's not careful he could hurt both.

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Tags: Chad Tracy, Trot Nixon