Greg Norton

2017

There was no outlook written for Greg Norton.

2010

In his prime Norton had some power, drew walks, hit from both sides of the plate and played several positions, making him a useful utility player. He hit just .145 last season and hit just .162 as a pinch-hitter, so his time on a major league bench may be over since he turns 38 next season.

2009

Norton has some power, draws walks, hits from both sides of the plate and can play several positions, making him a useful utility player as he showed with the Braves last season. However, he strikes out too often, making him a batting average risk if he gets significant playing time. And at age 36, it's hard to see him winning a starting role as he'll be back in Atlanta in 2009.

2008

As feared, Norton proved his big year in 2006 was a bit of a fluke. Norton underwent arthroscopic elbow surgery right after the season ended, and he's expected to be ready for spring training. The Rays held a $1 million option on Norton for 2008, but their roster has improved to the point where the Rays did not bring him back for that price, despite the fact that he really seems to fit in well in the Rays' clubhouse.

2007

Norton was perhaps baseball's hottest hitter in August 2006, and that one month led the Rays to invite him back for 2007 in a utility role. He'll be effective at times and could have his uses in deeper AL leagues. However, when a player has his best season at the age of 34, you should not plan on a repeat at age 35.

2006

Norton did a solid job at Triple-A Charlotte, but doesn't seem likely to get another crack at the majors any time soon. He's worn four uniforms in three seasons, and will probably add to that collection before he's done.

2005

Norton had by far the worst season of his nine-year major league career in 2004. Even though the Tigers are very thin at third base, Norton will need an amazing performance in spring training to start the season at the major league level.

2004

Norton is best suited to being a bat off the bench. Plenty of teams could use an aging veteran with a bat that has seen better days, and if Norton can come to grips with the fact that he's not an everyday player, he could provide some value for a team with a muddy corner infield situation.

2003

With Todd Zeile gone, Norton could begin the year as the Rockies starting third baseman. That might not last long – Garrett Atkins is waiting in the wings, and Jeff Baker will eventually be hot on the trail.