Here’s a look at some middle infielders that should return to form in 2010.
Akinori Iwamura, 2B, Pittsburgh Pirates
Iwamura was limited to just 69 games last year. He’s moved on to Pittsburgh where he should return to form. In 2007 & 2008 he averaged .279, 86.5 runs, 6.5 HRs, 41 RBIs, and 10 SBs. He’s only useful in the middle infielder slot.
Stephen Drew, Arizona Diamondbacks
It’s not like Drew had a terrible year, but his .261-71-12-65-5 was not on par with his 2008 .291-91-21-67-3. Drew should improve in all aspects, with SBs as the possible exception.
J.J. Hardy, Minnesota Twins
A .229-53-11-47-0 season earned him a ticket out of Milwaukee. He averaged .280, 83.5 runs, 25 HRs, 77 RBIs, and 2 SBs in 2007 and 2008 for the Brew Crew. The change of scenery should do him good.
Kelly Johnson, 2B, Arizona Diamondbacks
Johnson was an absolute mess last year hitting .224 with 47 runs, 8 HRs, 29 RBIs, and 7 SBs. Not exactly what you’d expect from someone that had a 2007 line of .276-91-16-68-9 and a 2008 line of .287-86-12-69-11.
He gets a fresh start in Arizona, where he’s bound to have marked improvement. I’d only use him as a MI.
Jose Reyes, SS, New York Mets
His injury has moved him from a Top Five selection into the second round at best. Look for 100+ runs and 30+ SBs depending on how long he is out with his thyroid condition.
Richie Weeks, 2B, Milwaukee Brewers
Weeks doesn’t have to come back from ineffectiveness. He played extremely well last year. His season was just cut short (wrist). Assuming he’s healthy he should have an excellent season.
Also check out:
Bounceback Catchers
Bounceback Corner Infielders
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