The one question being asked by most at spring training is where Teahen will play this year. Notice that they are not asking IF he will play, instead WHERE? Mark Teahen is one of the more versatile players you are going to find in the league. Last year he was switched from third base to right field. No complaints. This year, with the addition of Jose Guillen, he is being asked to move from right field to left field (with some first base in there for good measure). No problem. He is just happy to be part of the team. Last year’s experience in right field, however, probably makes him the leading candidate for filling in for Jose Guillen, who will start the season on the bench, serving a 15 day suspension by Major League Baseball for violating the league’s substance policy.
Nonetheless, look for Teahen to make a huge difference in the Royals versatility this season, as he racks up 2 more positions that he can at least slide into if the club needs him. His ability to learn fast benefits everyone involved also. He had 17 assists last year from right field, tying a club record, last year, and that number was good enough for second overall in the American League. With Teahen’s ability to pick up on the fundamentals of each new position, it leaves time to practice the other half of baseball that matters. Hitting. He went into a slump, of sorts, last year, as he was trying too hard to be the hero and hit every ball out of the park. This reflected in his numbers dramatically. His approach this year to hitting, so far, has been to concentrate more on solid contact, and let the home runs come as a result, instead of the other way around. A little “cart before the horse” mistake that obviously is getting addressed and fixed through maturity, and gaining a veteran statis.
Mark Teahen understands what is ahead of him, and understands the importance of finding those answers. With the level of versatility that he brings to the ball club, and his incredible work ethic, he is going to be an asset to this franchise for years to come. Hopefully this is the year that he breaks out of his shell behind the plate, and settles into a position that suits his style of defensive play, and a place where he can make a large impact on this club.