Versatility, experience keys to Campbell's hot start

A year ago at this time, Eric Campbell found himself in a peculiar position as one of the only American players for the Hanshin Tigers, a team which plays in Japan's Central League.
After being outrighted off the New York Mets roster at the end of the 2016 season, Campbell became a free agent, electing to join the Tigers saying he was "just looking for a chance to play every day".
Though Campbell says he would recommend the experience to everyone, the 6'3" 215-pounder struggled with the language barrier and wound up spending most of the year on Hanshin's minor league squad in a season partially lost due to injury.
"There were a lot of lonely days at the ballpark," Campbell said. "It's definitely good to be back in the States and trying to get back to the big leagues."
Campbell is certainly making a push for a return to the majors. After missing four games in April due to a minor neck injury, Campbell has been one of the toughest outs in the Pacific Coast League. Since April 26, no player in the PCL owns a higher batting average than Campbell's .434 mark to boost his season average to .361, fourth in the league. He also paces the circuit with a .526 on-base percentage in that span, and ranks fourth with 36 hits. His 11-game hitting streak from April 28 to May 8 was the longest by a New Orleans hitter since August 2015.
"It all started in Nashville once I got back to playing every day," Campbell said. "Once you get on one of those heaters, you try to keep it going as long as you can. I still feel good, so I'm going to try and keep it going."

Having settled into the third spot in the Baby Cakes' lineup, Campbell credits hitting behind Isaac Galloway and Magneuris Sierra for giving him plenty of opportunities to produce. The 'Cakes have won 10 of the 15 games with Campbell batting third, and are hitting .294 as a team in May, third-best in the PCL.
"Those guys cause havoc, and they're always looking to run," Campbell said. "When I've got guys in scoring position, they draw the infield in a little bit, which just makes hitting that much easier."
Campbell's value does not end with his hitting prowess though, as he has committed only one error in 34 games between second and third base, contributing to the Baby Cakes' league-best defense.
"I have always liked moving around," Campbell said about his versatility. "It just makes it more fun to come to the park every day."
At this rate, the fun could continue deep into the summer.