Bats: Left Throws: Right Height: 5’11” 175 lbs. DOB: 4/30/87
(Arkansas/Salt Lake): .293/.371/.487 with 14 HRs and 20 SB
Across the board, Matt Long is a solid player. Hitting: he has never posted a season with an OPS below .800 or less than 25 doubles in a full season. Running: he has never posted a full season with less than 20 SBs. Fielding: He plays all 3 OF spots and since has 2012 transitioned back to playing 2B, where he played in high school. Throwing: he has an above average arm.
The challenge for Matt Long has been to find an area in the Angels organization where he could truly carve a name for himself. Throughout his Minor League career, Matt Long has been blessed with across the board good skills, but not one exceptional skill to truly stand out. But that may ultimately prove his value to the organization because he can fill in at a variety of positions as a left-handed bat off the bench or pinch runner while playing several positions.
Look for Matt Long to start the season at Triple-A where he will continue to refine his defense at both 2B and all 3 OF positions. He has all the makings of a versatile super utility player, and may get some time in Anaheim in 2014.
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