OnlyBucs

With JHay out; who is the leader of this eye opening Buccos team. I think Jordy Mercer has been a steady quiet leader. We tend to overlook Mercer and take him for granted but he is rock solid in the field, comes up with clutch hits, and is a very well spoken intelligent individual. I know that we are grooming future shortstops but Mercer has been a very reliable performer.

I like Mercer. He has always reminded me of Gene Alley. Very steady in the field and a very similar type of hitter. Not an offensive force but he contributes. Decent hitter for a SS and very sure handed.

I have always pictured Mercer as the fun, professional player for the clubhouse. He was the one pouring beer on everyone in the locker room when they clinched playoffs. Even in 2013, he was pouring it on McCutchen, Burnett, and Walker who were considered the veteran leaders. After Kingham's debut in the high five line, he was the one who grabbed Kingham and gave him a big bear hug. So, I am sure there is some respect and leadership qualities there.



As a player, he is very smart. Stats say he is a little above average among other NL short stops. He doesn't stand out, but he gets the job done. He isn't flashy, but has one of the best gloves in baseball. That is probably why he doesn't get recognized too much throughout the league. He is a very smart baseball player too. With that all said, the Pirates can certainly improve on the field at SS. Mercer is the guy who can play in almost any era. He isn't bad, but isn't great either.

I like Mercer as well. He is a very steady fielder. I would like for the Pirates to attempt to extend him for two years. He would be a very good teacher for the the young infielders who should arrive in the next couple years. He would be the mentor like Clint Barmas was to him a few years ago.