PLAYING TIME: Zobrist gets back-to-back SS starts

AMERICAN LEAGUE

Zobrist gets first SS starts since 2009

Ben Zobrist (2B/OF, TAM) gained SS eligibility in one-game-eligibility formats August 9 by making his first SS start since 2009. Zobrist made a second SS start August 10, replacing slumping regular Elliot Johnson (SS, TAM), who is carrying a sub-.200 BA and sub-.500 OPS in 82 second-half AB. Johnson's season-long .225 xBA suggests his .248 BA is more likely to continue its descent than to climb.

Zobrist's position shift opened lineup space for both Jeff Keppinger (2B/3B, TAM) and Ryan Roberts (3B/2B, TAM). While initial media reports had TAM manager Joe Maddon indicating Zobrist's move was not permanent, it could endure if it boosts a lowly TAM offense ranking 13th among...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Today

A trio of free-agent signings, including Tatsuya Iami, Kazuma Okamoto and Tyler Mahle, alter playing-time landscapes in Houston, Toronto and San Francisco.
Jan 7 2026 8:37am
Zach Eflin back in BAL; possible closers Fairbanks and Yates find new teams; Cincy adds outfielders and more.
Dec 31 2025 9:02am
Boston swings a deal for a right-handed lineup stalwart; McNeil, O'Hearn, Refsnyder on the move, and more.
Dec 24 2025 9:30am
Shane Baz slots into the Baltimore rotation; the Rays, Pirates and Astros swing a three-way deal, a couple big signings in San Diego, and more.
Dec 22 2025 9:06am
Ha-Seong Kim's bet on himself pays off and he takes over SS for the Braves. Plus new homes for Adolis García, Adrian Houser, Josh Bell and more.
Dec 17 2025 8:44am

Tools