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Diamondbacks to start Nick Ahmed at shortstop, Chris Owings at second base

Nick Ahmed

Nick Ahmed

AP

The Diamondbacks announced on Twitter that manager Chip Hale has named Nick Ahmed as the team’s starting shortstop and Chris Owings as the starting second baseman. As a result, veteran Aaron Hill will be relegated to a bench role. The D-Backs are actively trying to trade Hill, Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports.

Hill, 33, is owed $12 million for the 2015 season and $12 million next season as well, a portion of which the Diamondbacks would be expected to cover. Hill missed considerable time in 2013 due to a fracutred hand and missed several games throughout the 2014 season due to various ailments, though none resulted in a stint on the disabled list. Nevertheless, given Hill’s age and health history, he would be considered an injury risk.

Ahmed, 25, hit his way into a starting role by batting .328 over 58 at-bats in Cactus League play. Owings hit only .244 in 41 at-bats.

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