Carlos Beltran: Since returning to the Mets, Beltran has struggled, 3/20/.235 with 3 steals in 170 AB. With no real change in his approach at the plate, 2008/2009/2010 BB%’s 13%/13%/15% and Ct%’s 84%/86%/83%, the decline in his power and speed from above league average to below league average is most likely a combination of the injuries and age. Beltran will be 34 years of age at the beginning of next year and this could be his new level, which should make you think twice about protecting him in keeper leagues.
Pablo Sandoval: After putting up big numbers last year, 25/90/.330 in 572 AB, it has been a disappointing season for Sandoval, 12/59/.268 in 567 AB. With his approach at the plate and GB% remaining consistent, 2009/2010 BB%’s 8%/8%, Ct%’s 85%/85%, 45%/45%, the loss of power, 2009/2010 HR/FB%’s 14%/7%, could be a hidden injury, personal issues (he is going through a divorce), or from being out of shape. He is still only 24 years of age, so look for a bounce back 2011 season.
Jordan Zimmermann: With 15 K’s in 14 innings since returning, Zimmermann quick recovery from Tommy John surgery has been remarkable. Before going down with the elbow injury last year, Zimmermann’s skills were excellent, 9.1 K/9, 2.9 BB/9, and a 44% GB%. His elbow will only get stronger between now and the beginning of the 2011 season, which makes the 24-year-old one to watch next season.
Carlos Gonzalez: An awesome second-half power surge, 19 HR in 233 AB, is making Gonzalez one of the top players in baseball, 32/100/.335 with 23 steals in 517 AB. The power is fully supported Gonzalez getting more loft on the ball, 1st Half/2nd Half GB%’s 46%/36% and FB%’s 35%/40%, and the maturation of his 6’1, 215 lb body, 2008/2009/2010 HR/FB%’s 6%/17%/21%. The 24-year-old is just entering his power prime years and with the speed, he is easily one of the top keepers for 2011.
Joey Votto: Votto has become one of the top sluggers in the major league’s this year, 32/100/.319 in 489 AB. However this breakout has to be viewed with some suspicion given the rise in his GB%, 2009/2010 GB%’s 39%/47%, and the sharp spike in his HR/FB%, 2008/2009/2010 HR/FB%’s 19%/18%/25%. At the magic age of 27, this is screaming career year. While Votto should still be an above average player in 2011, don’t expect a repeat of 2010.
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