Before he was a second baseman, Wong was a catcher in high school and then an outfielder in college. He likened the last to being a free safety in football, which he also played in high school.

Matheny said that if Wong can play center — “I don’t doubt at all what I’m hearing,” he said — Wong also could turn up as a corner outfielder in a pinch.

“Versatility means opportunity,” said Matheny. “He’s going to get some opportunity out there. It’s not just going to be center field. If he can cover center, he’s going to be able to cover the corners.”

Wong said he was convinced he would wind up as a second baseman. “I think I’ll be back there soon,” he said.

But, for now, he said, “It’s kind of an unfortunate situation for me but it’s great for the team to have guys (Greg Garcia, etc.) , who have stepped into roles and haven’t left. That leaves me in a situation where I have to figure out another place to play or, when my time comes, I need to do what I need to do.”

GYORKO AT FIRST



