Prior to the return of Magglio Ordonez to the Tigers lineup, Boesch was consistently batting third in the order, providing direct protection to Cabrera and frequently giving him a runner in scoring position.
In his rookie season last year Boesch had a tremendous first half, he could do no wrong and was hitting the ball around the yard. But the second half of the season wasn't as friendly to Boesch, his numbers dropped dramatically. In the off season Boesch worked on his swing and tried to return to his first half form, and for the most part he has.
For the 2010 season Boesch didn't have very stellar numbers; he finished the season with a .256 BA, a .320 OBP and a -1 rBAT (number of runs better or worse than average hitter). This season he has turned those numbers around, through July 2nd he has a .307 BA, .365 OBP and a 16 rBAT. Boesch has improved in every significant category and has turned himself into a force on this team.
Currently Manager Jim Leyland has Boesch batting second in the order, which means that pitchers now have to face a power bat right out of the gates. With Ordoneze behind him, Boesch is providing a bit help to Austin Jackson in the lineup. When Jackson can get on base Boesch is frequently able to move him up on the base paths and into scoring position for Ordonez or Cabrera to drive him in.
Although Boesch isn't incapable of driving in runs on his own, through July 2nd he has 11 home runs and 39 RBI while scoring 55 runs. Boesch has managed to become a well balanced hitter who is able to provide home run power early in the lineup while still remaining patient enough to draw a walk or simply take a single.
If Boesch can continue to develop the way he has recently, the Tigers may have found a great addition to their ball club.
No comments:
Post a Comment