Baker unlikely to lift Choo for Heisey late in games

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Asked if versatile fourth outfielder Chris Heisey might be a late-inning defensive replacement in center fielder for Shin-Soo Choo, Reds manager Dusty Baker all but ruled it out.

"In my opinion, I think Heisey is a better corner man," Baker said on Tuesday. "If Heisey had been a center fielder or a leadoff man, we wouldn't have to get Choo. He can play [center field] in a pinch."

Choo was acquired in a December trade with the Indians to be Cincinnati's new leadoff hitter and center fielder. In Cleveland, Choo was a right fielder and he has little experience with center field.

"Heisey has a lot of effort," Baker said. "He'll probably play center field on days Choo doesn't play."