Mike Aviles: Aviles has been on fire since rejoining the Royals, 2/3/.375 in 64 AB. Don’t count on it lasting, as he is enjoying an inflated .358 BHIP%, is hitting with below average power, and he has yet to take a walk. This is the perfect time to sell high on Aviles.
John Jaso: Jaso won’t hit for power, 1 home run in 71 PA, but his approach at the plate, 17% BB% and an 89% Ct%, means he won’t hurt your team batting average. His current .333 BA is being propped up by a .304 BHIP%, but there are also some good skills behind it. He doesn’t play enough to be used in mixed leagues, but is a good option in AL-only leagues. If his playing time increases, he would be a good 2nd C in mixed leagues.
Billy Butler: Is it possible to have a disappointing .337 BA? Well Butler is making a strong case for it. A .305 BHIP% is inflating his BA and his power is regressing, 2009/2010 AB’s 608/163, HR’s 21/4, and Doubles’ 51/12, at a time when it should be showing growth for the 24-year-old Butler. He is still providing value, but if he wants to take it to the next level, he is going to need to hit for more power. Also if the power doesn’t come, there could be some downside BA risk in the near future.
Coco Crisp: Crisp should join the A’s this weekend and most likely will assume a full-time role and be inserted into the leadoff spot. Outside of his speed, Crisp is not a particularly productive player, 2007/2008 AB’s 526/361, HR’s 6/7, Doubles’ 28/18, and BA’s .268/.283. If he plays, he will provide SB’s, 13 steals in 15 attempts in 49 games last year, but he won’t provide help in other categories.
Mark Ellis: Ellis should return to the A’s this weekend and reclaim his starting 2B job. Last year, he provided a decent power/speed option in the MI, 10 HR and 10 steals in 377 PA. He doesn’t walk often, 2009 BB% of 6%, but does make enough contact, 86% Ct%, where he shouldn’t be a drag on your team BA, .263 in 2009 despite having a depressed .228 BHIP%.
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