Pirates' Gregory Polanco: Starts spring training strong

Polanco went 3-for-3 with a double in the Grapefruit League opener Saturday against Baltimore.

Analysis:

Polanco is looking to put a full season together. After slashing .310/.386/.556 through the 2016 season's first two months, he batted .229/.286/.412 the rest of the way. The Pirates moved him from right field to left over the winter, a move which could put Polanco's durability to the test, given PNC Park's spacious left field area and his balky left knee. Nevertheless, the 25-year-old is still on the upswing of his career. It appears he's put on muscle over the winter, a move which could perhaps help his power numbers but hurt him in the stolen base category. He hit cleanup Saturday after bouncing around the lineup last season.