ST KILDA Category B rookie Sam Alabakis will play VFL at Frankston this year, rather than with the Saints' affiliate Sandringham.

The thinking behind the move is it will allow the 211cm ruckman to play in his ideal position, rather than be stuck behind whoever of Billy Longer or Lewis Pierce takes the mantle at the Zebras.

It's a move St Kilda first did with Pierce last season to great success.

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Pierce was entering the final season of his contract and seemed to be on the brink of being delisted, but an impressive campaign with the Dolphins and injuries to Longer and Tom Hickey (now at West Coast) meant he lined up in the season's final three games.

He then inked a new deal for 2019.

Saints assistant Adam Skrobalak coached Frankston in 2018, but he has since become full-time at Moorabbin and been replaced by Danny Ryan.

Alabakis, 22, is a raw prospect who previously spent time playing basketball at the University of Louisiana Monroe.

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Originally born in Perth, Alabakis is alongside Fremantle giant Aaron Sandilands and Collingwood big man Mason Cox as the tallest players ever listed.