The Braves signed Alberto Callaspo with the idea that the switch-hitter would be their regular second baseman but Callaspo showed up to camp out of shape and prospect Jace Peterson has made a strong case to win the job.
Callaspo may not begin the season as the everyday second baseman but Gonzalez said he’s rounded into form during Grapefruit League play.
“I think he’s been terrific,” Gonzalez said before the Braves played the Pirates on Thursday. “His last four or five games is the Callaspo we wanted. With those veteran guys, you’ve got to believe the back of their baseball cards.”
After getting two hits against the Pirates on Thursday, Callaspo is 8 for his last 22 (.363) with no strikeouts in Grapefruit League play.
Gonzalez also noted that Callaspo has shown some ability to play third base, versatility that enhances his value as a bench player.
“He’s been great,” Gonzalez said. “He’s worked hard off the field.”
The Braves signed Callaspo, 31, to a one-year, $3 million contract in December. In 996 career games with 3,695 plate appearances he’s hitting .267 with a .290 slugging percentage and .290 on-base percentage.
