Baseball Prospectus 2010 has been released and projects more than 1600 players for 2010. No doubt, there will still be someone in spring training that makes a team by surprise, but it’s still an impressive display of statistical information, both historical and projectable in nature.
Below is my effort to give you some one-line summary highlights of the Baseball Prospectus individual summaries. Today is the offense. This is only a handful of the entries. (You should really go buy the book; there is much more information packed in there.)
Yonder Alonso–Reds are hoping Alonso’s bat forces its way into their lineup….but will need to solve lefty pitching and show some more pop
Wladimir Balentien–prospect with big-time power and improving plate discipline but a few too many holes in his swing
Jay Bruce–his power is undeniable, but after 839 MLB plate appearances, his ability to get on base or to hit lefties is in doubt
Orlando Cabrera–offensive performance has been nearly identical the last four years, never gets hurt, and comes with good rep on D–however, analysis shows his D was -13 runs last year in 99 games with the A’s
Chris Dickerson–may have to resign himself to a career as a toolsy part-timer
Juan Francisco–ton of power, but there’s not much else to recommend him….outside of a strong arm
Todd Frazier–not strong enough defensively to stick at short, but a good fit, given his offensive profile, at 2b
Ryan Hanigan–deserves better; would be a back up on a good team, but shouldn’t lose playing time to Ramon Hernandez
Paul Janish–good glove; hasn’t hit since A-ball
Brandon Phillips–fine fielder, made gains at the plate in 2009 due to jump in batting average
Scott Rolen–can still pick it; no longer a power hitter; almost guaranteed to be traded (flipped) again
Drew Stubbs–otherworldly defensive centerfielder and excellent baserunner; propensity for strikeouts undermines the rest of his offensive game
Joey Votto–one of the best hitters in the game