The San Francisco Giants used top prospect Buster Posey, naturally a catcher, at first base for a few innings on Saturday, notes Chris Haft in his MLB.com blog. Using Posey at 1B is an idea that Giants' manager Bruce Bochy has tossed around a few times this spring, although this was the first time it actually happened. Posey played the position well and looked comfortable around the bag.
The Giants have a difficult decision in front of them regarding Posey, their top draft pick in 2008 (5th overall). He is undoubtedly their catcher of the future, but the general consensus within the organization is that he could use some more time in the minors to refine his defensive play behind the plate. The Giants, however, are a team that has struggled to score runs in recent years, and Posey's bat would be a welcome addition to the lineup.
The Giants have mentioned not wanting to keep Posey in the majors because they won't have an opportunity for him to catch every day, but with a team that is only one or two bats away from contending, the temptation to leave Posey on the roster is growing daily. Posey appears to have adapted well to first base, and he would give the team a platoon partner for Aubrey Huff, who struggles to hit lefties. Most scouts also believe that Posey has the athleticism to play other positions on the field.
