I see the merits from both sides of the debate, and I share the concerns about a few players like Yoshida or older players. Certainly, I want catchers resting more often.
However, I do think some players can and should play 156-159 games, a year, if they are...
Young & healthy
Don't have major issues vs LHPs or RHPs
Are a big step up from their replacement
Not slumping
When the team has a guy like Refsnyder, who has killed LHPs for 2 years, I'm fine with rotating the LHB OF'ers rest days.
When the team has a guy like Turner, I'm fine with resting Casas v LHPs, but why is he getting days off vs RHPs, and starting some vs LHPs? Because he was "scheduled" for the day off, day or weeks ahead of time? (I disagree.)
Playing Turner at 1B, also allows Yoshida to "rest" by playing DH. Yoshida has DH'd 41 times, this year. I'm not sure he needs 16 rest days by mid August.
I like this debate. Some good points are being made, all around, but so far, none have changed my mind.
I also agree with Bell. Cora's opinion matters more than any poster's here, including mine.
I respect his opinion more than any one else's, including mine. (This will drive Red nuts.)