I'm not anti-Holt, given his utility and given that no one should be judged on so few at bats (including Lin), BUT...
Lin's defense seems so far superior that he needs to be the Designated Marrero when Pedroia returns. Correct me if I'm wrong, but between Lin and Nunez, 4-5-6 is covered. Swihart and Martinez can cover Left Field with one of the B's filling in for the other in CF or RF.
Where does that leave Holt vs. Lin?
- They're both LHH's, which is a need on this team - still
- Neither is ever being used for their bat, unless they PH in interleague or for one of the catchers (doubtful)
- Lin had 23 SB's in 2015 (only 10 in 2017) but is seemingly a better PR candidate than Holt.
- Late defense is definitely an issue with Devers at 3B and Pedroia being handled carefully (not to mention Bogaerts, who I still think can be a + defender)
Even though it appears that Holt is a well-liked character in the clubhouse and he's a player with a lot of big league experience - if they need to choose 2 of Nunez, Lin, Holt...wouldn't Lin be the logical long term choice?
Perhaps injuries will make this issue irrelevant.