Michael Tucker

Tucker slipped out of favor in San Francisco and was dealt to Philadelphia late in the season. He did a modest job for the Phillies and could hang on for another year or two as a pinch-hitter and fifth outfielder.

In his first season in San Francisco, Tucker put up mediocre numbers as the Giants regular right fielder, although he also spelled Marquis Grissom in center at times. His best asset is speed, but under Giants manager Felipe Alou he won't repeat the 24 SB he had in 2002 with Kansas City. He'll likely see less playing time in a reserve role with Moises Alou signed to play right field.

Tucker seemed out of place in the ultra-positive Tony Pena clubhouse. The chronic scowl on Tucker's face might be caused by his frustration from never hitting 20 home runs while striking out over 100 times four times during his career, all the while inexplicably getting close to 400 at bats every season. He broke his leg in August but returned for the season's final week, so physical health isn't an issue. He could get significant at bats in San Francisco between right and center field.

Despite reasonable numbers, Tucker is in the way as a Royal. He collected 475 at bats (hitting .248 with 12 home runs) in 2002, which is more a testament to injuries and the Royals' lack of interest in bringing youngsters along than anything else. He played second base once in his career, so the Royals are thinking about giving him a real shot at the position this spring. At 32, that would be an extreme oddity.