SF Giants infielder thriving at new position despite lack of experience

While the roster for the SF Giants has remained remarkably consistent to begin the season, there have still been some surprises with how players have been used. The biggest surprise has probably been Casey Schmitt's usage at first base.

It came as a mini-shock when Schmitt was out at first base earlier in the season against the Houston Astros after he pinch hit for LaMonte Wade Jr. Schmitt was always thought of as a natural third baseman who could also play shortstop and second base, so seeing him playing first base took a little getting used to.

Casey Schmitt looking good at first base for SF Giants

Thus far, Schmitt has looked comfortable at a foreign position. In 38 innings played at first base he has yet to make an error and he has even made some really impressive plays that have made him look like a veteran at the position rather than someone who is still learning the ropes.

His best play at first base up to this point was probably a back-handed stop he made in the 8th inning of Sunday's win against the New York Yankees. Schmitt dove to stop the ball and flipped it to pitcher Tyler Rogers who was covering the bag from his knee.

He made another impressive play during Tuesday's game against the Philadelphia Phillies so it really seems like he is becoming more comfortable at the position every time he is out there. J.T. Snow, one of the best defensive first basemen in franchise history, has taken notice, giving Schmitt props on social media.

Perhaps this should not come as too much of a surprise. We have seen in the past that Schmitt is gifted with great defensive instincts and a special set of hands so the fact that he is picking up a new position this quickly makes a lot of sense.

Not only has the San Diego State product been contributing defensively, he has also looked good at the plate as of late. He has just four hits in 19 at-bats, but he drove in two runs on a single on Tuesday in Philadelphia so perhaps he is about to heat up soon. He is receiving most of the starts at first base against left-handed starters and the Giants face several more left-handed starting pitchers in the next week so he is going to get more opportunities to do damage at the plate.

Still, what he is doing with his glove has been mighty impressive thus far. Let's hope he can continue to get more comfortable at first base as the season goes on and can heat up at the plate as well.