Rookie SS Brignac Hits 3rd HR

Reid Brignac hit a three-run homer off of Carlos Fisher in the Rays' 7-3 Spring Training win over the Reds. It was Brignac's 3rd home run of Spring Training with 35 at bats. The 23-year-old prospect has a shot at the Tampa Bay Rays starting shortstop spot, though Jason Barlett still has the edge. Starting second basemen Akinori Iwamura is not a lock at second base either and Bartlett moving to second base isn't out of the question. Brignac batted a disappointing .250 but hit 9 home runs with 352 at bats in AAA Durham in 2008. He hit 66 home runs and stole 41 bases with 2,023 minor league at bats and has a lifetime .282 average. He is a medium-long shot to start opening day, but could get a starting look at some point in 2009. He has the potential to hit 20+ home runs and steal around 15 bases. That would make for a solid starting fantasy shortstop, especially in a good offense like the Rays. Sin City Scout