Robinson's Error Costly

Kerry Robinson has played centerfield in 61 major league games over the course of his career. He played 52 games in center for the 2001, 2002, and 2003 St. Louis Cardinals, and he played 9 games in center for the 2004 San Diego Padres. You'd think that the guy would be an adequate back up—or at least look like he belongs in centerfield, since he's only committed one error in his career while playing the position. But you would be wrong.

Have you ever seen a play like the one yesterday when Joe Crede hit a ball to deep centerfield? The wind was blowing in and Robinson seemed unsure of himself as he approached the wall. He climbed the wall and seemed to wait an eternity for the ball to drop. It dropped alright—on the warning track. Then it bounced into the stands. I was going to say that it was one of the most embarrassing plays I have ever seen, but Robinson kind of said it for me.

"It's embarrassing. I'm very embarrassed by my play out there." Robinson is quoted as saying in an article on the Royals website.

Fortunately, it didn't cost Redman the game after he pitched so well—giving up 2 ER in 7 IP. But in the bottom of the eighth inning with two outs and a guy on base, and the score tied 2-2, Jim Thome hit a pop up to centerfield. Robinson couldn't seem to decide whether he should pursue it or not. He started, stopped, and then started again, but he couldn't make the play. White Sox win 3-2.

"We were shifted all the way to the right and I assumed Emil [Brown] would be able to get to that ball a little easier," Robinson said after the game.

As the centerfielder, you've got to take charge. You can't assume that another outfielder is going to make the play. How is it that we continue to end up with guys who don't seem to have a clue how to play the game? They have talent, but they don't know or understand the basics?

Robinson may end up playing center for quite a while. David DeJesus injured his right knee while rehabbing his left hamstring. We don't know the extent of the injury, but an MRI is scheduled and we'll know more soon.

On a positive note, Denny Bautista is set to come off the DL today. He'll take Joe Mays' spot in the rotation.

And stay tuned. Today we may get an official announcement about the shake up that Glass has been promising.