And that’s my problem with carrying Fermin. There is never ever a time when playing Fermin is better than playing someone else. He would just sit on the bench for an emergency backup or play garbage innings. Siani could actually help win games. If Contreras or Burleson or maybe Gorman hits a late single or double and we’re 1 run down or tied, Siani’s speed makes him a great pinch runner option. It’s different than Mercado last season. Mercado was not a difference maker on the basepaths. Plus, Siani is a useful late game defensive replacement for either Walker in right or Edman in CF so Edman can replace Gorman at 2B.
Donovan can serve as the emergency SS for one game. Yes, there could be a situation 1 time in 162 games where we need a 4th option at SS. But carrying Fermin for that 1 time in 162 games just feels both like a conventional thing to do and also probably a foolish thing to do.